Zeolite-Type Metal Oxalate Frameworks.

Abstract

While many metal oxalate salts are known, few are known to form zeolite-type topologies. The construction of zeolite types, especially those with low framework density such as RHO, from linear ligands is generally perceived as less likely, because the 180° metal-ligand-metal geometry deviates too much from the established strategy of using ligands with bent coordination geometry (centered around 145°) to mimic the geometry in natural zeolites. We show the general feasibility of using linear ligands for the synthesis of zeolite types by reporting a family of indium oxalate salts with multiple zeolite topologies, including RHO, GIS, and ABW. Of particular interest is the synthesis of a zeolite RHO net with double 8-rings and large alpha cages, which are highly desirable zeolite features.