A Chiral Self-Catenated Dual-Ligand Coordination Polymer Constructed from Three Distinct Interwoven Helical Motifs Interconnected by One-Dimensional Chains

Hydrothermal synthesis has afforded [Co₃(oba)₃(bpmp)₂]_n [oba = oxybis(benzoate), bpmp = bis(4-pyridylmethyl)piperazine], a chiral coordination polymer possessing an aesthetic self-catenated three-dimensional structure with an unprecedented 8-connected uninodal 4⁴5¹⁷6⁷ topology. The network is formed by the junction of {Co₃O₂} clusters into three different homochiral interlocked helical motifs, linked by one type of “infinite” chain pattern. Antiferromagnetic exchange is observed within the {Co₃O₂} clusters.