A Robust Microporous Zinc Porphyrin Framework Solid

A robust microporous zinc(II) metalloporphyrin framework solid has
been synthesized. The proposed structural model developed from
X-ray single crystal data has an interpenetrated three-dimensional
framework of zinc trans-biscarboxylate tetraarylporphyrins whose
carboxylates coordinate the six edges of tetrahedral Zn4O6+ clusters,
maintaining a charge-neutral framework. This cubic framework has
74% free volume and 4 × 7 Å pores. N2 adsorption gives a type
I isotherm with a surface area of 800 m2/g, which is greater than
that of a typical zeolite. Experimental evidence indicates that the
interpenetrated frameworks of the evacuated solid remain intact
and retain a microporous structure. This is a versatile framework
system:  alteration of the metal in the porphyrin may create a
catalytically active solid, and modification of the 10-, 20-substituents
of the porphyrin can provide control over both the polarity and the
size of the pores.