Tuning the topology of a 2D metal–organic framework from 2D to 3D using modulator assisted synthesis†

Abstract

Two new metal–organic frameworks based on 2,2′-bipyridine-4,4′-dicarboxylate and La(III) ions were prepared under solvothermal conditions. [La(bpda)3/2(dmf)2]·dmf·H2O, MSU-10, was isolated as a 2D network structure. By introducing a modulator, 1,10-phenanthroline, the 3D network [La(bpda)3/2(dmf)(H2O)2]·dmf MSU-11 could be isolated with the unusual rod-MOF topology zbj. Both the 2D and 3D networks are stable upon guest removal and the activated phases of MSU-10 and MSU-11 exhibit some phase change when soaked in solvents for 24 h. Network analysis allowed the identification of MSU-11 as isoreticular with MOF-80 built from different linkers and metal ions.