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 [Cu2(BTC)4/3(H2O)2]6[HPW12O40]·(C4H12N)2·25H2O (denoted as NENU-3, H3BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic 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, N2 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 Cu3(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.