Micro-Macroporous Composite Materials: SiC Ceramic Foams Functionalized With the Metal Organic Framework HKUST-1

Using Supercritical CO2 in the Preparation of Metal-Organic Frameworks: Investigating Effects on Crystallisation

In this report, we explore the use of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) in the synthesis of well-known metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) including Zn-MOF-74 and UiO-66, as well as on the preparation of [Cu24(OH-mBDC)24]n metal-organic polyhedra (MOPs) and two new MOF structures {[Zn2(L1)(DPE)]∙4H2O}n and {[Zn3(L1)3(4,4′-azopy)]∙7.5H2O}n, where BTC = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate, BDC = benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate, L1 = 4-carboxy-phenylene-methyleneamino-4-benzoate, DPE = 1,2-di(4-pyridyl)ethylene, 4.4′-azopy = 4,4′- azopyridine, and compare the results versus traditional solvothermal preparations at low temperatures (i.e., 40 °C). The objective of the work was to see if the same or different products would result from the scCO2 route versus the solvothermal method. We were interested to see which method produced the highest yield, the cleanest product and what types of morphology resulted. While there was no evidence of additional meso- or macroporosity in these MOFs/MOPs nor any significant improvements in product yields through the addition of scCO2 to these systems, it was shown that the use of scCO2 can have an effect on crystallinity, crystal size and morphology.

Hierarchical Metal-Organic Frameworks with Macroporosity: Synthesis, Achievements, and Challenges

Introduction of multiple pore size regimes into metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to form hierarchical porous structures can lead to improved performance of the material in various applications. In many cases, where interactions with bulky molecules are involved, enlarging the pore size of typically microporous MOF adsorbents or MOF catalysts is crucial for enhancing both mass transfer and molecular accessibility. In this review, we examine the range of synthetic strategies which have been reported thus far to prepare hierarchical MOFs or MOF composites with added macroporosity. These fabrication techniques can be either pre- or post-synthetic and include using hard or soft structural template agents, defect formation, routes involving supercritical CO2, and 3D printing. We also discuss potential applications and some of the challenges involved with current techniques, which must be addressed if any of these approaches are to be taken forward for industrial applications.

New synthetic routes towards MOF production at scale

The potential commercial applications for metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are tantalizing. To address the opportunity, many novel approaches for their synthesis have been developed recently. These strategies present a critical step towards harnessing the myriad of potential applications of MOFs by enabling larger scale production and hence real-world applications. This review provides an up-to-date survey ( references) of the most promising novel synthetic routes, i.e., electrochemical, microwave, mechanochemical, spray drying and flow chemistry synthesis. Additionally, the essential topic of downstream processes, especially for large scale synthesis, is critically reviewed. Lastly we present the current state of MOF commercialization with direct feedback from commercial players.