Synthesis and characterization of a novel photoluminescent three-dimensional metal–organic framework

A novel metal–organic framework containing one-dimensional channels of formula [Zn3(Aco)2(H2O)6]n (H3Aco = aconitic acid) has been synthesized and characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TG), X-ray analysis, and solid state photoluminescence spectra. X-ray crystallographic studies reveal that there are two kinds of crystallographically independent Zn atoms in the title complex. The most interesting feature of the structure is an unprecedented 3D MOF containing infinite Zn(1) linear chains and heterochiral Zn(2) single-stranded helices. The linear chains and helices happen to be perpendicular to each other. Photoluminescence properties of the title compound have been examined in the solid state at room temperature.