A 3D Haloplumbate Framework Constructed From Unprecedented Lindqvist-like Highly Coordinated [Pb

Area of Science:

• Inorganic Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Solid-State Chemistry

Background:

• Developing novel three-dimensional (3D) metal-halide frameworks is crucial for discovering materials with unique physical properties and potential applications.
• Haloplumbates, compounds containing lead and halogen elements, are of interest for their diverse structural motifs and potential functionalities.
• The construction of complex 3D frameworks from specific building units remains a significant challenge in materials chemistry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a novel 3D haloplumbate framework.
• To explore the structural characteristics of unprecedented highly coordinated nanoclusters within the framework.
• To investigate the semiconductor and photoluminescent properties of the newly prepared material.

Main Methods:

• Hydrothermal synthesis was employed to prepare the 3D haloplumbate framework.
• Tetrakis(N-imidazolemethylene)methane (TIMM) was utilized as a structure-directing agent.
• Structural characterization and analysis of coordination environments within the nanoclusters were performed.

Main Results:

• The first 3D haloplumbate framework incorporating Lindqvist-like [Pb6Br25]13- nanoclusters was successfully synthesized.
• The [Pb6Br25]13- nanoclusters feature highly coordinated Pb2+ centers with seven- and eight-coordinated configurations.
• The resulting material is a wide-gap semiconductor (≈3.1 eV) with thermal stability up to 320°C and exhibits temperature-dependent emission.

Conclusions:

• The successful synthesis of this novel 3D haloplumbate framework provides a new strategy for exploring metal-halide open-framework materials.
• The unprecedented [Pb6Br25]13- nanocluster building unit opens new avenues in the design of complex inorganic structures.
• The observed temperature-dependent emission highlights the potential of this material for applications in optoelectronics and sensing.