View article

The robust metal−organic framework compound {[Zn₂(L)]·4H₂O}_∞ I has been synthesized by hydrothermal reaction of ZnCl₂ and 4,4‘-bipyridine-2,6,2‘,6‘-tetracarboxylic acid (H₄L). Compound I crystallizes in a chiral space group, P4₂2₁2, with the chirality generated by the helical chains of hydrogen-bonded guest water molecules rather than by the coordination framework. Removal of guest water molecules from the crystal affords the porous material, [Zn₂(L)]_∞ (II), which has very high thermal stability and is chemically inert. The N₂ isotherm of II at 77 K suggests a uniform porous structure with a BET surface area of 312.7 m²/g and a remarkably strong interaction with N₂ molecules (βE₀ = 29.6 kJ mol^-1). II also exhibits significant gas storage capacities of 1.08 wt % for H₂ at 4 bar and 77 K and 3.14 wt % (44.0 cm³/g, 67 v/v) for methane at 9 Bar at 298 K. The adsorption behavior of II toward organic solvent vapors …