Supramolecular assemblies involving metal–organic ring interactions: heterometallic Cu(ii)–Ln(iii) two-dimensional coordination polymers

Three isostructural two-dimensional coordination polymers of the general formula [Ln2(CuL)3(H2O)9]·5.5H2O, where Ln = La (1), Nd (2), and Gd (3), have been synthesized and isolated from aqueous solutions and their single-crystal structures determined by X-ray diffraction. The supramolecular interaction between the non-aromatic metallorings plays an important role in stabilizing the structure of these compounds. The thermal stability, reversible solvent uptake, electronic properties and magnetic studies of these compounds are also reported.