In Situ Two-Step Crystallization: Transformation of Kinetic Crystals into Thermodynamic Crystals

Unusual in situ two-step crystallization on self-assembly of AgX (X- = CF3SO3- and PF6-) with 1,3,5-tris(nicotinoyloxy-methyl)benzene (L) has been carried out. The self-assembly reaction produces initial single crystals consisting of cyclophane-type 30-membered macro cyclic linked one-dimensional (1D) coordination polymers, and then the single crystals are transformed into different morphological crystals consisting of 16-membered macrocyclic linked 1D coordination polymers in the mother liquor. The crystal structures show significant difference in metallophilicity between CF3SO3- and PF6- anion.