Rational Design, Synthesis, Purification, and Activation of Metal−Organic Framework Materials

摘要

Tnhe emergence of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) as func-ntional ultrahigh surface area materials is one of the most excit-ning recent developments in solid-state chemistry. Now constitutingnthousands of distinct examples, MOFs are an intriguing class ofnhybrid materials that exist as infinite crystalline lattices with inor-nganic vertices and molecular-scale organic connectors. Useful prop-nerties such as large internal surface areas, ultralow densities, andnthe availability of uniformly structured cavities and portals ofnmolecular dimensions characterize functional MOFs. Researchersnhave effectively exploited these unusual properties in applica-ntions such as hydrogen and methane storage, chemical separa-ntions, and selective chemical catalysis.nIn principle, one of the most attractive features of MOFs is thensimplicity of their synthesis. Typically they are obtained via one-npot solvothermal preparations. However, with the simplicity come challenges. In particular, MOF materials, especially morencomplex ones, can be difficult to obtain in pure form and with the optimal degree of catenation, the interpenetration or inter-nweaving of identical independent networks. Once these two issues are satisfied, the removal of the guest molecules (sol-nvent from synthesis) without damaging the structural integrity of the material is often an additional challenge.