# Synthesis, Structure and Iodine Adsorption Properties of a Ni Cluster-Based Supramolecular Framework

## TL;DR

A new porous material made from nickel clusters was created and shown to effectively capture radioactive iodine from both gas and liquid.

## Contribution

A Ni cluster-based supramolecular framework was synthesized for efficient and stable iodine adsorption.

## Key findings

- The framework achieved 2.08 g g−1 iodine adsorption from gas.
- It showed 560 mg g−1 iodine adsorption from solution.
- The material demonstrated stable cyclability for repeated use.

## Abstract

The capture of radioactive iodine (129I or 131I) is of significant importance for the production of nuclear power and the treatment of nuclear waste. In recent years, crystallized porous materials have been extensively investigated to achieve highly effective adsorption of radioactive iodine. Herein, by using the hydrothermal method, a Ni cluster-based framework (1) was successfully constructed through a self-assembly process. Driven by the π–π stacking interactions between π-electron-rich benzimidazole groups, [Ni5S6] clusters stack in a lattice, forming a porous framework with proper channels, rendering compound 1 as an ideal adsorbent for iodine. Compound 1 delivered a capability of iodine adsorption (2.08 g g−1 and 560 mg g−1 for gaseous and solution iodine, respectively) with stable cyclability.