A mesoporous metal-organic framework based on a shape-persistent macrocycle.

A mesoporous Zn-based metal-organic framework (MOF) was prepared from a shape-persistent phenylene ethynylene macrocycle functionalized with three -COOH groups. The rigid ligand has a ∼9 Å wide central cavity which serves as a predesigned pore. The macrocycles [π···π] stack into pairs, with their carboxylate groups connected via three Zn3O14C6H2 clusters. The resulting MOF has a void volume of 86%.