The complexes [Na(2)Nd(4)L(4)(CO3)L'(4)] [H(3)L = (o-HOC6H4CH = NCH2)(
2)CHOH, L' = tetrahydrofuran or L'(2) = 1,2-dimethoxyethane] have nove
l cage structures in which Nd4O12N8 bowl-shaped frameworks of Nd(4)L(4
) molecules entrap solvated Na2CO3 molecules within the cavity of the
bowl.