A three dimensional hydrogen bonded organic framework assembled through antielectrostatic hydrogen bonds

A crystalline 3D hydrogen bonded framework is assembled in water from tetrahedral tetraamidinium cations and antielectrostatically hydrogen bonded bicarbonate dimers. The framework forms in water, and represents a clear demonstration of the potency of these anti-Coulombic hydrogen bonds. Gentle heating of the framework (50 degrees C) releases CO2 and water to give the neutral tetraamidine compound.