Solvent templated synthesis of metal-organic frameworks:: structural characterisation and properties of the 3D network isomers {[Mn(dcbp)]•1/2DMF}n and {[Mn(dcbp)]•2H2O}n

The identity of the metal-organic framework formed by Mn(II) and 4,4'-dicarboxy-2,2'-bipyridine (H(2)dcbp) depends upon the predominant solvent employed in the synthesis and yields the robust network isomers [[Mn(dcbp)].1/2 DMF}(n), 1, and {[Mn(dcbp)].2H(2)O}(n), 2, which possess vastly different physical properties: 1 irretrievably binds DMF, whereas 2 reversibly binds water whilst retaining crystallinity.