An unusual copper(I) halide-based metal-organic framework with a cationic framework exhibiting the release/adsorption of iodine, ion-exchange and luminescent properties.

A copper(I) halide-based compound with a formula of [Cu4I3(DABCO)2]I3 (DABCO = N,N'-dimethyl-1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) has been prepared by solvothermal reactions. This compound has been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, IR, TG, XPS and powder X-ray diffractions. Structure analyses reveal that this compound is constructed by unprecedented cationic cluster [Cu8I6](2+) and organic ligand DABCO and the channels of this compound are occupied by I2 and I(-). The guest I2 and I(-) can move freely in and out of the host-framework. UV/vis spectra confirm that the I2 molecules in the channels can release into some organic solvents and IR spectra confirm the I(-) was exchanged by SCN(-). In addition, the luminescent properties of this compound in the solid state have also been investigated.