Two enantiomorphic 3D Zn(ii)–carboxylate MOFs with double helical structures serving as a chiral source induced by hydrogen bonding

Two enantiomorphic 3D Zn(II)–carboxylate metal–organic frameworks [Zn(bpydc)(H2O)2] (1M and 1P) (H2bpydc = 2,2′-bipyridyl-5,5′-dicarboxylic acid) have been synthesized. They both contain an elegant double helix, self-organized through hydrogen bonds between the coordinated water molecules and uncoordinated carboxylate oxygen atoms. This double helical structure serves as a chiral source which transmits chiral information over the whole 3D framework.