Abstract: Vapochromic coordination polymers useful for analyte detection are provided. The vapochromism may be observed by visible color changes, changes in luminescence, and/or spectroscopic changes, for example in the infrared (IR) or Raman signatures. One or more of the above chromatic changes may be relied upon to identify a specific analyte, such as a volatile organic compound or a gas. The chromatic changes may be reversible to allow for successive analysis of different analytes. The coordination polymer has the general formula MW[M?X(Z)Y]N wherein M and M? are the same or different metals capable of forming a coordinate complex with the Z moiety; Z is selected from the group consisting of halides, pseudohalides, thiolates, alkoxides and amides; W is between 1-6; X and Y are between 1-9; and N is between 1-5. One embodiment provides [Metal(CN)2]-based coordination polymers with vapochromic properties, such as Cu[Au(CN)2]2 and Zn[Au(CN)2]2 polymers.

Abstract: This application relates to metal-containing coordination polymers having high birefringent values. For example, polymers having birefringent values within the range of 0.07 to 0.45 are described. The polymers may comprise units having the formula M(L)X[M?(Z)Y]N, wherein M and M? are the same or different metals capable of forming a coordinate complex with the Z moiety; L is a ligand; Z is selected from the group consisting of halides, pseudohalides, thiolates, alkoxides and amides; X is between 0-12; Y is between 2-9; and N is between 1-5. In particular embodiments of the invention L may be a highly anisotropic organic ligand, such as terpyridine, and Z may be a pseudohalide, such as CN. The invention also includes methods for synthesizing the coordination polymers and use of the polymers in birefringent materials and devices. In one embodiment the polymers may be processible into thin films.