Syntheses, crystal structures, substituents steric effect, luminescent and moisture-stability studies of three two-dimensional zinc-organic frameworks

► Three 2D zinc-organic frameworks have been solvothermally synthesized. ► The substituents of the ligands play an important effect on the final topological structures. ► All of three complexes emit the intense indigotin photoluminescence at room temperature. ► The water repellent groups of the ligands could enhance the water resistance of the MOF materials.