Opening ZIF-8: A Catalytically Active Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework of Sodalite Topology with Unsubstituted Linkers

A zeolitic imidazolate framework material of <b>SOD</b> topology possessing primarily unsubstituted imidazolate (<i>im</i>) linkers has been synthesized via solvent-assisted linker exchange (SALE) of <b>ZIF-8</b>. The structure of the new material, <b>SALEM-2</b>, has been confirmed through ¹H NMR and powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. <b>SALEM-2</b> is the first example of a porous Zn­(<i>im</i>)₂ ZIF possessing a truly zeolitic topology that can be obtained in bulk quantities. Upon treatment with <i>n</i>-butyllithium, the open analogue exhibits Brønsted base catalysis that cannot be accomplished by the parent material <b>ZIF-8</b>. Additionally, it displays a different size cutoff for uptake and release of molecular guests than does <b>ZIF-8