Spontaneous resolution of novel Zn complexes in the formation of 3D metal-organic frameworks based on 2,2′-biimidazole ligand

► Spontaneous chiral resolution occurred in solvo-thermal reaction. ► The isolated enantiomers were characterized by solid state CD spectra. ► The coordination mode of bridging biim2− attached to four metal centers (type III). ► Photoluminescent spectra of compound 1 exhibited an intense blue emission.