A novel 3-D microporous magnesium-based metal–organic framework with open metal sites

A novel Mg(II) MOF [Mg₄(bdc)₄(DEF)₄]_n (1) containing coordinated DEF molecules has been synthesized. Heating 1 to 400 °C provides a DEF-free MOF (3) with open metal sites, resulting in large H₂ and CO₂ uptakes and high CO₂/N₂ selectivity.