Synthesis, Characterization, and Property Investigation of a Metal- Organic Framework Encapsulated Polyoxometalate Guests: An Advanced Inorganic Chemistry Experiment

A research-style laboratory experiment for advanced undergraduate students is described, which includes the synthesis, characterization, and properties (porosity, stability, amphipathy) testing of the composite [Cu-2(BTC)(4/3)(H2O)(2)](6)-[HPW12O40]center dot(C4H12N)(2)center dot 25H(2)O (denoted as NENU-3, H3BTC = 1,3,5-benzene-tricarboxylic acid). This experiment lets students experience the universal procedure of hydro(solvo)-thermal synthesis and get knowledge of general scientific research approaches as well as have hands-on experiences in diverse modern instrumental techniques (PXRD, IR and UV-vis spectroscopy, N-2 adsorption, and TG analysis) extensively used in chemical research. Most importantly, this laboratory experiment exposes students to explore the structure-property-application relationship in NENU-3 composite material through comparing the structure and properties of NENU-3 with those of its individual component materials (H3PW12O40 and Cu-3(BTC)(2)) and consulting the related literature about NENU-3 catalysis. This experiment is helpful for developing the scientific thinking of students in chemistry through completing the analysis and discussion about the structure-property-application relationship in POM@MOF.