Multi‐Template‐Guided Synthesis of High‐Dimensional Molecular Assemblies for Humidity Gradient‐Based Power Generators

Abstract

AbstractSystematically orchestrating fundamental building blocks into intricate high‐dimensional molecular assemblies at molecular level is imperative for multifunctionality integration. However, this remains a formidable task in crystal engineering due to the dynamic nature of inorganic building blocks. Herein, we develop a multi‐template‐guided strategy to control building blocks. The coordination modes of ligands and the spatial hindrance of anionic templates are pivotal in dictating the overall structures. Flexible multi‐dentate linkers selectively promote the formation of oligomeric assembly ([TeO3(Mo2O2S2)3O2(OH)(C5O2H7)3]4− {TeMo6}) into tetrahedral cages ([(TeO3)4(Mo2O2S2)12(OH)12(C9H9O4P)6]8− {Te4Mo24} and [(AsO4)4(Mo2O2S2)12(OH)12(C9H9O6)4]12− {As4Mo24}), while steric hindrance from anionic templates further assists in assembling cages into an open quadruply twisted Möbius nanobelt ([(C6H5O3P)8(Mo2O2S2)24(OH)24(C8H10O4)12]16− {P8Mo48}). Among these structures, the hydrophilic‐hydrophobic hybrid cage {Te4Mo24} emerges as an exemplary molecular model for proton conduction and serves as a prototype for humidity gradient‐based power generators (HGPGs). The Te4Mo24‐PVDF‐based HGPG (PVDF=Poly(vinylidene fluoride)) exhibits notable stability and power generation, yielding an open‐circuit voltage of 0.51 V and a current density of 77.8 nA cm−2 at room temperature and 90 % relative humidity (RH). Further insights into the interactions between water molecules and microscale molecules within the generator are achieved through molecular dynamics simulations. This endeavor unveils a universal strategy for synthesizing multifunctional integration molecules.