From Cubane to Supercubane: The Design, Synthesis, and Structure of a Three-Dimensional Open Framework Based on a Ln4O4 Cluster

Abstract
An extended network, {[Dy4(OH)4(asp)3(H2O)8](ClO4)2⋅10 H2O}n, having three‐dimensional channels with a spacing of 11.78 Å (see picture) has been prepared by mixing Dy(ClO4)3 and L‐aspartic acid in aqueous solution, and subsequently adjusting the pH values to about 6.5 using aqueous NaOH solution. This open‐framework compound is representative for the assembly of discrete lanthanide cubanes into supercubanes.