Synthesis, characterization, and catalytic behavior of two open-framework zinc phosphites with 2D and 3D structures

Two new zincophosphites are obtained via a hydrothermal process. Single crystal data indicate that 1 has a two dimensional motif with the organic amine template embedded between the layers, while 2 has a three-dimensional structure with the organic amine template enclosed into the cavities. Knoevenagel condensation of benzaldehyde and ethyl cyanoacetate is carried out with these two complexes as support in ethanol at 333 K respectively. Experimental results indicate that only 1 is efficient for the catalysis. The catalytic ability depends on their structural characters. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.