Influence of carboxylate counter anions on the cationic framework of 1,10-phenanthroline cobalt(III) complexes: Syntheses, characterization and single crystal structure determination of [Co(phen)2CO3]X.nH2O complexes

► Four cobalt(III) complexes containing carboxylate anions have been synthesized. ► Complexes have been characterized by TGA, spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. ► Non-covalent interactions are playing crucial role in lattice stabilization. ► Different packing arrangements were observed in response to carboxylate anions. ► Pillared layer, square cavities type and zig-zag layered arrangements were observed.