Incorporation of an intact dimeric Zr12 oxo cluster from a molecular precursor in a new zirconium metal–organic framework.

Two zirconium–organic frameworks were synthesized by exchanging the acetate ligands in [Zr₁₂O₈(OH)₈(CH₃COO)₂₄] with polydentate linkers. Partial substitution of acetate groups by a phosphine based linker yielded a new porous framework with this unique dimeric Zr₁₂ cluster unit as molecular building block. More exhaustive substitution of acetate resulted in cleavage of the Zr₁₂ unit and formation of UiO-67. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]