Binding of arylsulphonates by cationic cobalt(III) complex: Syntheses, characterization and single crystal structure determination of [Co(phen)2CO3](arylsulphonate)⋠nH2O

► Two cobalt(III) complexes containing arylsulphonate 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. ► Bi-layered and zig-zag layered packing arrangements have been observed.