A 3D [WS4Cu4]2+ cluster-based material with high iodine uptake capability.

A high symmetry heterothiometallic cluster-based 3D framework of composition [WS4Cu4(μ-CN)2(bpea)2]·1.5DMF was obtained from the combination of (NH4)2WS4, CuCN and 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane (bpea). It holds an unusual topology with [WS4Cu4]2+ clusters linked by CN- and bpea bridging ligands. An interesting feature of this cubic structure is the presence of isolated hexagonal channels that extend in four distinct directions. Its desolvated sample demonstrated high performance in the adsorption of iodine from solution.