The complex [Sm(H3L)(NO3)(H2O)](NO3)(2) . H2O was synthesized by the (2+3)
condensation of tris(2-aminoethyl)amine with 2,6-diformyl-4-chlorophenol in
the presence of Sm3+. Its crystal structure has been determined. In the co
mplex the coordination number of Sm3+ is nine. A water molecule is encapsul
ated in the cryptate as a guest, confirmed by electrospray mass spectrometr
y, thermal analysis and the X-ray crystal structure.