Construction of hierarchically porous metal-organic framework particle by a facile MOF-template strategy

Increasing the mass diffusion efficiency is a major challenge in the realm of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Construction of hierarchically porous , typically microporous MOF adsorbents or catalysts is crucial for enhancing both mass transfer and molecular accessibility. Many strategies have been proposed for the synthesis of hierarchically porous MOFs (HP-MOFs), with some striking results. In this paper, we proposed a facile and versatile strategy, termed the MOF-Template strategy, for fabricating hierarchical pores in MOF particle. The highly controlled crystalline sizes and morphologies of the unstable Cu-MOFs Cu 3 (BTC) 2 and Cu(Qc) 2 have been exploited in their utilization as sacrificial agents by uniformly dispersing them during the shaping process of ZIF-8. Through a facile treatment with alkaline solution, tunable mesopores and macropores could be easily introduced in the shaped ZIF-8 spheres. This strategy could effectively improve the adsorption kinetics and separation productivity of MOF materials while maintaining high mechanical stability, offering promising prospects for industrial application.