Template-directed proton conduction pathways in a coordination framework

We present a strategy for creating coordination frameworks exhibiting proton conduction with thermal stability. The coordination framework, where template cations link 1-D chains via hydrogen bonds, has dynamic hydrogen bond networks where protons move without water support. Solid-state NMR and X-ray studies visualized the proton hopping mechanism, and revealed that the templates provide the bridging of the 1-D chains to attain proton conduction. The templates also enable the proton conductive networks to be maintained at 190 °C through multiple interactions between the templates and the 1-D chains.