Tuning the topology of a 2D metal-organic framework from 2D to 3D using modulator assisted synthesis

Two new metal-organic frameworks based on 2,2 '-bipyridine-4,4 '-dicarboxylate and La(iii) ions were prepared under solvothermal conditions. [La(bpda)(3/2)(dmf)(2)]center dot dmf center dot H2O, MSU-10, was isolated as a 2D network structure. By introducing a modulator, 1,10-phenanthroline, the 3D network [La(bpda)(3/2)(dmf)(H2O)(2)]center dot dmf MSU-11 could be isolated with the unusual rod-MOF topology zbj. Both the 2D and 3D networks are stable upon guest removal and the activated phases of MSU-10 and MSU-11 exhibit some phase change when soaked in solvents for 24 h. Network analysis allowed the identification of MSU-11 as isoreticular with MOF-80 built from different linkers and metal ions.