A novel Cd complex with 3D framework containing perpendicular chains and helices

The hydrothermal reaction of CdBr2 · 2H2O with a flexible multicarboxylate ligand, trans-aconitic acid (H3L), produced a novel coordination compound [Cd3L2(H2O)6]n. It crystallizes in the space group C2/c with a = 17.1304(1) Å, b = 9.5611(2) Å, c = 14.0137(2) Å, β = 115.96°, Z = 4, V = 2063.65(5) Å3. The unique feature of the structure is an unprecedented 3D framework containing infinite Cd(1)–O–C linear chains and heterochiral Cd(2)–O–C single-stranded helices. These linear chains and helices happen to be perpendicular to each other.