Synthesis, 13C NMR-MAS, AC conductivity and structural characterization of [C7H12N2]ZnCl4

Synthesis, crystal structure, 13C CP-MAS-NMR analysis and impedance spectroscopy study are reported for a new organic–inorganic hybrid salt, [C7H12N2][ZnCl4], consisting of one 2,4-diammonium toluene cation and one [ZnCl4]2− anion. The Zn atom is in a slightly distorted tetrahedra coordination environment. The structure can be described by the alternation of ionic and organic layers. The cohesion of the material is assured by strong charge-assisted N–H⋯Cl interactions established between ammonium groups and discrete [ZnCl4]2− tetrahedra. Solid state 13C CP-MAS-NMR spectra show seven isotropic resonances, confirming the existence of seven non-equivalent carbon atoms which are consistent with the solid state structure determined by X-ray diffraction.Impedance spectroscopy study, reported for single crystal and powder samples, reveals that the conduction in the material is due to a hopping process along the [1 0 0] direction.