Three-Dimensional Polyoxometalate Organic Frameworks with One-Dimensional Channels Constructed by Multiple Helical...

Area of Science:

• Inorganic Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Supramolecular Chemistry

Background:

• Polyoxometalates (POMs) are versatile inorganic clusters with tunable properties.
• Organic frameworks offer porous structures for molecular assembly and function.
• Proton conduction is crucial for energy applications like fuel cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize novel polyoxometalate organic frameworks (POMOFs).
• To investigate the proton conduction properties of the newly developed POMOFs.
• To understand the role of structural features in facilitating proton transport.

Main Methods:

• Assembly of unique 22-core sandwich {[Mn6Mo6O37]Ln3[MnMo6O24]} units (Ln = La, Pr).
• Integration of these units into three-dimensional polyoxometalate organic frameworks.
• Characterization of the framework's structure and hydrophilic channels.
• Evaluation of proton conductivity under varying conditions.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of two novel POMOFs incorporating undisclosed {Mn6Mo6} clusters.
• The frameworks exhibit one-dimensional hydrophilic hexagonal channels.
• Effective proton conduction was observed, primarily mediated by water molecules within the channels.
• The 63 helical chains contribute to the formation of these channels.

Conclusions:

• The designed POMOFs demonstrate promising proton conduction capabilities.
• The structural design, featuring hydrophilic channels and water molecules, is key to proton transport.
• These findings open avenues for developing new materials for proton-conducting applications.