Synthesis and photochemical modification of monolayer thin MOF flakes for incorporation in defect free polymer composites

authored by: Karen D.J. Hindricks, Jessica Erdmann, Celine Marten, Timo Herrmann, Peter Behrens, Andreas Schaate
Abstract: Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with benzophenone linker molecules are characterized by their ability to undergo photochemical postsynthetic modification. While this approach opens up almost unlimited possibilities for tailoring materials to specific applications, the processability of the large particles is still lacking. In this work, we present a new approach to fabricate micro flakes of the stable Zr-bzpdc-MOF (bzpdc = benzophenone-4-4′-dicarboxylate) with a thickness of only a few monolayers. The crystalline and nanoporous flakes form dispersions in acetone that are stable for months. Embedding the flakes in polymer composites was investigated as one of many possible applications. Zr-bzpdc-MOF micro flakes were decorated with poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) via a photochemical postsynthetic modification and incorporated into silicon elastomers. The PDMS functionalization allows covalent cross-linking between the MOF and the polymer while maintaining the porosity of the MOF. The resulting hybrid materials provide defect-free interfaces and show preferential adsorption of CO₂ over CH₄, making them attractive for gas separation or sensing applications. The work should serve as a basis for bringing bzpdc-MOFs into real-world applications - in polymeric membranes, but also beyond.
Organisation(s): Institute of Inorganic Chemistry
PhoenixD: Photonics, Optics, and Engineering - Innovation Across Disciplines
Laboratory of Nano and Quantum Engineering
Type: Article
Journal: RSC Advances
Volume: 13
Pages: 27447-27455
No. of pages: 9
ISSN: 2046-2069
Publication date: 13.09.2023
Publication status: Published
Peer reviewed: Yes
ASJC Scopus subject areas: Chemistry(all), Chemical Engineering(all)
Electronic version(s): https://doi.org/10.1039/d3ra04530g (Access: Open)