Open-Framework Gallium Borate with Boric and Metaboric Acid Molecules inside Structural Channels Showing Photocatalysis to Water Splitting

An open-framework gallium borate with intrinsic photocatalytic activities to water splitting has been discovered. Small inorganic molecules, H3BO3 and H3B3O6, are confined inside structural channels by multiple hydrogen bonds. It is the first example to experimentally show the structural template effect of boric acid in flux synthesis.