Self-assembly of a three-dimensional network from two-dimensional layers via metallic spacers: the (3,4)-connected frame of [Ag3(hmt)2][ClO4]3·2H 2O (hmt = hexamethylenetetramine)

AgClO 4 reacts with hexamethylenetetramine (hmt) in ethanol–CH 2 Cl 2 in the ratio 1:1 to yield the two-dimensional polymer [Ag(hmt)] ClO 4 , consisting of hexagonal meshed layers, while a twofold excess of AgClO 4 produces [Ag 3 - (hmt) 2 ]ClO 4 ] 3 ·2H 2 O, in which Ag I ions intercalate between the sheets of the two-dimensional polymer, joining them as spacers to give a three-dimensional (3,4)-connected open network of uncommon topological type.