a b s t r a c t The complexing ability of the binary system trans-aconitic acid (H 3 L) with regard to Cd(II) and the crystal structures of the binary system Cd(II)–(H 3 L), [Cd 3 L 2 (H 2 O) 6 ] n(1) and ternary systems of Cd(II)–(H 3 L)– Lewis base [Lewis base = 1,10-phenanthroline (2) and 2,2 0 -bipyridine (3)] have been determined. Com-pound 1 is a rare binodal four-connected three-dimensional (3D) metal-organic framework possessing a moganite (mog) topology. Compounds 2 and 3 represent infinite one-dimensional (1D) chains forming three-dimensional metal-supramolecular structures through H-bond and p–p stacking interactions. All compounds have been characterized by spectroscopic and thermogravimetric techniques.