Opening ZIF-8: A Catalytically Active Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework of Sodalite Topology with Unsubstituted Linkers

A zeolitic imidazolate framework material of SOD topology possessing primarily unsubstituted imidazolate (im) linkers has been synthesized via solvent-assisted linker exchange (SALE) of ZIF-8. The structure of the new material, SALEM-2, has been confirmed through 1H NMR and powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. SALEM-2 is the first example of a porous Zn(im)2 ZIF possessing a truly zeolitic topology that can be obtained in bulk quantities. Upon treatment with n-butyllithium, the open analogue exhibits Brønsted base catalysis that cannot be accomplished by the parent material ZIF-8. Additionally, it displays a different size cutoff for uptake and release of molecular guests than does ZIF-8.