Coordination-induced formation of nanobelts of organic-inorganic hybrid materials at room temperature

The unexpected finding that the direct mix of o-phenylenediamine and H₂PdCl₄ aqueous solution at room temperature leads to supramolecular nanobelts of coordination polymers was reported. The morphology of the structures was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the chemical composition was examined by energy-dispersed spectrum (EDS) and X-ray maps analysis. The possible formation process of such supramolecular nanobelts is given and the influence of the molar ratio of reactants on the formation of these nanobelts is also examined. It is also found that the molar ratio of reactants has strong influence on the formation of the supramolecular structures.