Inter-conversion of 1-D coordination polymers in the Ce–Sr–dipicH2 system (dipicH2 = dipicolinic acid)

A solution of the previously known 1-D coordination polymer, made up of alternating [Ce(dipic)3]2− and [Sr(dipicH2)(OH2)3]2+ polyhedra takes up additional Ce4+ and Sr2+ ions leading to the double stranded hetero-metallic squarate chain. The transformation can be reversed by adding excess dipicH2. The crystal structure and thermal decomposition study of the new squarate chain polymer is reported. The analogous Ca compound does not undergo this transformation.