Assembly of metal ions and ligands with adaptable coordinative tendencies as a route to functional metal-organic solids

The majority of efforts on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) concern their rational design and, intuitively, researchers are drawn to assembly units with well-defined, reliable coordinating tendencies. Assembly units with less well-defined properties are generally less employed. This concept paper discusses the merits of using adaptable components for the assembly of functional MOFs. “Adaptable” components, whether for the metal ion or for the ligating group, are defined as those having several coordination modes within a narrow energetic range. Use of these assembly units can lead to new solids with: (i) highly dynamic properties; (ii) new inorganic structural motifs; and possibly (iii) high thermal stabilities. The article, to facilitate comparison, considers a framework on the basis of metal ion, coordinating functionality, and organic spacer. Networks with one, two and three “adaptable” units are then discussed. Ultimately, the illustration that less well-defined properties does not necessarily translate to less functional materials will be made.