A research-style laboratory experiment
for advanced undergraduate
students is described, which includes the synthesis, characterization,
and properties (porosity, stability, amphipathy) testing of the composite
[Cu2(BTC)4/3(H2O)2]6[HPW12O40]·(C4H12N)2·25H2O (denoted as NENU-3,
H3BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid). This experiment
lets students experience the universal procedure of hydro(solvo)-thermal
synthesis and get knowledge of general scientific research approaches
as well as have hands-on experiences in diverse modern instrumental
techniques (PXRD, IR and UV–vis spectroscopy, N2 adsorption, and TG analysis) extensively used in chemical research.
Most importantly, this laboratory experiment exposes students to explore
the structure–property–application relationship in NENU-3
composite material through comparing the structure and properties
of NENU-3 with those of its individual component materials (H3PW12O40 and Cu3(BTC)2) and consulting the related literature about NENU-3 catalysis.
This experiment is helpful for developing the scientific thinking
of students in chemistry through completing the analysis and discussion
about the structure–property–application relationship
in POM@MOF.