Synthesis,structure and electrochemical properties of a polyoxometalate-templated compound with 2D twofold interpenetrating network

A new Keggin-type polyoxometalate-based compound {Cu₂(L)₄(H₂O)₄](PW₁₁^VIW^VO₄₀)}·16H₂O (1) constructed from PW₁₁^VIW^VO₄₀ ⁴⁻, N,N′-bis(4-pyridylformyl) piperazine (L) and Cu(II) has been hydrothermally synthesized and structurally characterized by elemental analyses, IR and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that the semi-rigid piperazine-based ligands L coordinate to the Cu(II) atoms to constitute a two dimensional coordination network. The 2D (4, 4) cationic layers are stacked together in a perpendicular mode, resulting in the formation of twofold interpenetrating frameworks with large cavities. The PW₁₂ anions reside in the large cubic-like cavities, serving as non-coordinating templates. The compound 1 displays good electrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of nitrite in 1 M H₂SO₄ aqueous solution.