Synthesis and characterization of a novel one-dimensional Zn(II) coordination polymer based on in situ generated 1-methyl-2-(3H-[1,2,3]triazol-4-yl)-1H-benzoimidazole

► {[Zn2(L)3(H2O)(NO3)]·2.5H2O}n (HL = 1-methyl-2-(3H-[1, 2, 3]triazol-4-yl) -1H-benzoimidazole) has been synthesized. ► HL was in situ generated by decarboxylation reaction. ► 1 exhibits a unique butterfly-like chain architecture. ► The photoluminescent properties of 1 and ligands are measured and analyzed in detail.