Synthesis, structural characterization, gas sorption and guest-exchange studies of the lightweight, porous metal-organic framework alpha-[Mg3(O2CH)6].

Unsolvated magnesium formate crystallizes upon reaction of the metal nitrate with formic acid in DMF at elevated temperatures. Single-crystal XRD studies reveal the formation of [Mg3(O2CH)6 [symbol: see text] DMF], 1, a metal-organic framework with DMF molecules filling the channels of an extended diamondoid lattice. The DMF molecules in 1 can be entirely removed without disruption to the framework, giving the guest-free material alpha-[Mg3(O2CH)6], 2. Compound 2 has been characterized by both powder and single-crystal XRD studies. Thermogravimetric analyses of 1 show guest loss from 120 to 190 degrees C, with decomposition of the sample at approximately 417 degrees C. Gas sorption studies using both N2 and H2 indicate that the framework displays permanent porosity. The porosity of the framework is further demonstrated by the ability of 2 to uptake a variety of small molecules upon soaking. Single-crystal XRD studies have been completed on the six inclusion compounds [Mg3(O2CH)6 [symbol: see text] THF], 3; [Mg3(O2CH)6 [symbol: see text] Et2O], 4; [Mg3(O2CH)6 [symbol: see text] Me2CO], 5; [Mg3(O2CH)6 [symbol: see text] C6H6], 6; [Mg3(O2CH)6 [symbol: see text] EtOH], 7; and [Mg3(O2CH)(6) [symbol: see text] MeOH], 8. Analyses of the metrical parameters of 1-8 indicate that the framework has the ability to contract or expand depending on the nature of the guest present.