On the formation of framework indium sulfides

Novel layered and open framework indium sulfide organic/inorganic hybrid materials have been synthesized via hydro- and solvo-thermal techniques. Considerable structural diversity within this family of compounds is realized through a variety of structural building units. DEA-InS-SBl and -SB2 (both [(CH₃CH₂)₂NH₂]₆In ₁₀S₁₈) consist of corner linked In₁₀S₂₀ supertetrahedra; DPA-InS-ML ([C₆H₁₆N]₄In₄S₁₀H ₄) contains isolated In₄S₁₀ thioanions, while TMDP-InS-SB4 ([C₁₃H₁₄N₂]₄In₉S ₁₇) has a layered structure containing linked In₉S₂₀ double adamantane clusters. Factors governing the formation of the structural building units (in the presence of amines) and their subsequent template mediated assembly are discussed with respect to previously reported and novel structure types.