SMTP-1: The First Functionalized Metalloporphyrin Molecular Sieves with Large Channels

Robust hexagonal cavities (dimensions: 17×20×15 Å), encompassed by the pyridyl groups of cyclic metalloporphyrin hexamers (see picture), are the characteristic structural motifs of the nanoporous materials [{M(tpyp)}₆]⋅n G (M=Co, Mn; tpyp=tetrakis(4-pyridyl)porphyrinato; G=guest molecule), which were prepared from MCl₂ and H₂tpyp under hydrothermal conditions. The rhombohedral crystal lattice with infinite hexagonal channels is thermally stable up to 400°C, even after the removal of the guest molecules.