Polyoxometalate-based gelating networks for entrapment and catalytic decontamination

We report the synthesis and characterization of a new class of organic/inorganic hybrid polymers composed of covalently-bound 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxamide linkers and anionic polyoxovanadate clusters with varying counter-cations. These materials form gels within seconds upon contact with polar aprotic organic liquids and catalyze the degradation of odorants and toxic molecules under mild conditions including aerobic oxidation of thiols, hydrogen peroxide-catalyzed oxidation of sulfides, and hydrolysis of organophosphate chemical warfare agent analogues. A polyoxometalate-based polymer with multifunctional capabilities including rapid gelation and catalytic decontamination of toxic or odorous compounds is realized.