Synthesis, structure and research on quasi-aromaticity of a new organically templated aluminoborate: [NH0.5C4H4NH0.5][AlB12O14(OH)12]

► The research on quasi-aromaticity of [AlB12O14(OH)12]− is firstly brought up. ► Three isolated p bonds changing into a large p bond is confirmed by NICS. ► How 3 p bonds forming into a large p bond is explained by Mulliken charges. ► Presence of ring currents or quasi-aromaticity is validated by 2D IR COS.