We show that symmetry-based zero-quantum dipolar recoupling sequences sandwiched between central transition selective pi/2-pulses may be used to excite double-quantum coherences (2QC) between the central transitions of homonuclear half-integer quadrupolar spins undergoing magic-angle spinning. The 2QC excitation is explored experimentally by Na-23 and Al-27 NMR on Na2SO3 and alpha-Al2O3 model compounds. When incorporated into 2Q-1Q 2D correlation protocols, the new recoupling method established all expected Al-27-Al-27 connectivities over 6 angstrom in the open-framework aluminophosphate AlPO-CJ19 [(NH4)(2)Al-4(PO4)(4)HPO4.H2O] and the layer mineral chlorite [Mg9Al6Si5O20(OH)(16)]. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.