Two novel 3D microporous heterometallic 3d–4f coordination frameworks with unique (7, 8)-connected topology: Synthesis, crystal structure and magnetic properties

Two new 3D 3d–4f heterometallic microporous metal-organic frameworks, named, [Ln2Ni(Himdc)2(aip)2(H2O)4]·6H2O [Ln = Nd (1), La (2); H3imdc = imidazole-4,5-dicarboxy acid; aip = 5-aminoisophthalic acid], have been successfully synthesized through the reaction of Ln2O3, NiSO4·6H2O, H3imdc, aip and H2O. Compounds 1 and 2 are isomorphic, displaying rare interesting 3D heterometallic networks with (7, 8)-connected topology based on the linkages of 2D layers and 1D zigzag chains. In addition, the magnetic properties of the two compounds have been investigated.