Single-step synthesis and interface tuning of core-shell metal-organic framework nanoparticles
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Control over the spatial distribution of components in metal-organic frameworks has potential to unlock improved performance and new behaviour in separations, sensing and catalysis. We report an unprecedented single-step synthesis of multi-component metal-organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles based on the canonical ZIF-8 (Zn) system and its Cd analogue, which form with a core-shell structure whose internal interface can be systematically tuned. We use scanning transmission electron microscopy, X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy and a new composition gradient model to fit high-resolution X-ray diffraction data to show how core-shell composition and interface characteristics are intricately controlled by synthesis temperature and reaction composition. Particle formation is investigated by in situ X-ray diffraction, which reveals that the spatial distribution of components evolves with time and is determined by the interplay of phase stability, crystallisation kinetics and diffusion. This work opens up new possibilities for the control and characterisation of functionality, component distribution and interfaces in MOF-based materials.
Date Issued
2021-02-09
Date Acceptance
2021-02-08
Citation
Chemical Science, 2021, 12 (12), pp.4494-4502
ISSN
2041-6520
Publisher
The Royal Society of Chemistry
Start Page
4494
End Page
4502
Journal / Book Title
Chemical Science
Volume
12
Issue
12
Copyright Statement
© 2021 The Author(s). Published by the Royal Society of Chemistry Open Access Article This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported Licence.
License URL
Identifier
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/34163714
PII: d0sc03940c
Publication Status
Published
Coverage Spatial
England
Date Publish Online
2021-02-09