Template controlled synthesis of cluster-based porous coordination polymers: crystal structure, magnetism and adsorption

Two distinct template mediated coordination polymers, [Co3(ina)4(N3)2(CH3OH)2] with tri-nuclear nodes (1) and [Co8(OH)(ina)8(N3)8·X] with dual tetra-nuclear cobalt nodes (2), have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions by utilizing the template agent of pentaerythritol. 1 shows a 2D layer comprised of linear tri-nuclear CoII clusters, in which the central cobalt ion is inter-linked with two terminal ones via mixed bridges as syn–syn carboxylates and end-on azide ions. In contrast, compound 2 exhibits a three-dimensional framework based on two kinds of six-connected tetra-nuclear cobalt clusters: square-planar node and cuboidal node. Both 1 and 2 might exhibit spin-canted magnetism. In addition, the activated sample of 2 exhibits the sorption ability of H2 and CO2 molecules.