Proton-conducting supramolecular metallogels from the lowest molecular weight assembler ligand: a quote for simplicity.

Oxalic acid has been proven to be the lowest molecular weight organic ligand able to form robust supramolecular metallogel networks in the presence of metal salts. In particular, two novel multifunctional metallogels were readily prepared at room temperature by simple mixing of stock solutions of Cu(II) acetate monohydrate or Cu(II) perchlorate hexahydrate and oxalic acid dihydrate. Formation of different polymorphs and unprecedented proton conduction under anhydrous conditions were also demonstrated with some of these materials.