[Ni(phen)3]2Sb18S29: A Novel Three-Dimensional Framework Thioantimonate(III) Templated by [Ni(phen)3] Complexes

A novel thioantimonate(III), namely, [Ni(phen)(3)](2)Sbi(8)S(29) (1; phen = 1,10-phenanthroline), has been solvothermally synthesized. Its structure features a three-dimensional framework with the largest channels in thioantimonates. The chiral [Ni(phen)(3)](2+) cations and the Sb:S ratio (1:1.611) in I are unique among those in the reported thioantimonates. The thermal stability, optical properties, and electric conductivity as well as the theoretical band structure and density of state of I have also been studied.