Selective CO₂ adsorption and proton conductivity in the two-dimensional Zn(ii) framework with protruded water molecules and flexible ether linkers

A two-dimensional (2D) Zn(ii) metal-organic framework with flexible aryl ether linkers and water molecules exposed to the pores was prepared. The supramolecular three-dimensional (3D) network is generated by the presence of extensive π-π contacts, which could be responsible for gas uptake. The water molecules and oxygen atoms from the flexible linkers create a polar environment within the integrated framework, leading to simultaneous selective CO₂ adsorption and proton conductivity in the two-dimensional Zn(ii) framework.