An Indium Layered MOF as Recyclable Lewis Acid Catalyst

By using the bent linker 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)bis(benzoic acid) (H2hippb), whose central atom is an sp3 carbon, a new In(III) MOF has been obtained. The structure is described as thick layers with the bent geometry of the ligand leading to the formation of square-shaped channels, which run inside the framework layers. This microporous, thermally stable compound has been proved to be an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for acetalization of aldehydes. Differences in the catalytic activity when a compound with empty or filled channels is used demonstrate that the catalytic reactions take place inside the pores.