Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are a highly versatile class of compounds composed of metal ions or clusters coordinated to orgnic ligands. The unique and intricate structures of MOFs can be one-, two-, or three-dimensional, enabling them to exhibit a wide range of properties ideal for use in various cutting-edge technologies. With their high surface area, tunable pore sizes, and excellent chemical stability, MOFs have found valuable applications in gas storage, separation, catalysis, sensors, drug delivery, and more. Below, we provide some of the most commonly used MOFs and their applications.
ZIF-8 (Zinc 2-methylinmidazole)
Material Title: ZIF-8,MAF-4,Basolite®Z1200, Zinc 2-mthylimidazole
CAS No.:59061-53-9
Structural Information:
- Formula:C8H10N4Zn
- Molecular Weight:227.6
- Pore Diameter:0.34nm/1.1nm
- Pore Volume:0.66cm3/g
- BET Specific Surface Area:>1500m2/g
- Morphology:White powder
- Particle size:100nm~20μm
ZIF-8 is one of the most studied MOFs, known for its high surface area and tunable pore structure. Its high porosity and robust stability make it ideal for applications in gas storage, gas separation, and catalysis, particularly for hydrogen and methane storage.
ZIF-67 (Cobalt 2-methylimidazole)
Material Title:ZIF-67, Cobalt 2-methylimidazole
CAS No.:46201-07-4
Structural Information:
- Formula:C8H10N4Co
- Molecular Weight:223.14
- Pore Diameter:0.34nm/1.1nm
- Pore Volume:0.66cm3/g
- BET Specific Surface Area:>1500m2/g
- Morphology:Purple powder
- Particle size: 100nm~20μm
ZIF-67 is structurally similar to ZIF-8 but uses cobalt instead of zinc as the metal center. It exhibits similar properties, making it useful for applications in gas storage, catalysis, and separation processes. The cobalt-based ZIF-67 has unique catalytic properties that make it suitable for chemical reactions, including CO2 capture and hydrogenation processes.
UiO-66 (Zirconium 1,4-dicarboxybenzene)
Material Title:UiO-66, Zirconium 1,4-dicarboxybenzene
CAS No.:1072413-89-8
Structural Information:
- Formula:C48H28O32Zr6
- Molecular Weight:1662.4
- Pore Diameter:0.74nm~1.5nm
- Pore Volume:0.5cm3/g
- BET Specific Surface Area:>1300m2/g
- Morphology:White powder
- Pore Size:100-500nm
UiO-66 is a zirconium-based MOF that is particularly stable and has a relatively high specific surface area. The robustness and chemical stability of UiO-66 make it an ideal material for applications involving harsh environments, such as gas storage, separation, and catalysis. Its tunable pore size also makes it suitable for water treatment and pollutant removal.
Super Activated Carbon
BET Specific Surface Area:>2000m2/g
While not a MOF per se, Super Activated Carbon is often used alongside MOFs in advanced applications where extreme surface area is required. Its high BET surface area is ideal for gas storage and separation applications, complementing the use of MOFs in similar fields.
Applictions of MOFs
MOFs are incredibly versatile, and their unique structure and properties make them ideal for a wide range of applications in multiple industries. Below are some key areas where MOFs are being used:
1.Gas Storage
MOFs are particularly effective in gas storage applications due to their high surface area and tunbale pore sizes. They sare efficient for storing gases like hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, which are essential for energy storage, clean energy applications, and industrial processes. MOFs like ZIF-8 and ZIF-67 are widely used in hydrogen and methane storage for fuel cell technologies and natural gas storage.
2.Catalysis
MOFs are increasingly used as catalyst supports in various chemical reactions, including those involved in the production of biofuels, petrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Their large surface area provides excellent support for catalytic sites, enhancing the efficiency of reactions. ZIF-67, with its cobalt-based metal center, has shown great promise in CO2 capture and hydrogenation reactions.
3.Separation and Purification
MOFs are highly effective in gas and liquid separation due to their tunable pore structures. They get use in water purification, air filtration, and chemical separation processes. MOFs can selectively adsorb and separate different gases or liquids, making them valuable in applications ranging from environmental protection to chemical engineering.
4.Sensors
MOFs have gained attention in the field of advanced sensors for detecting chemicals and gases due to their ability to interact with a wide variety of molecules. Their high surface area and porosity allow them to absorb gases, leading to measurable changes in their properties. It makes them ideal for gas sensing and environmental monitoring.
5.Drug Delivery
MOFs have been explored for use in drug delivery systems, where they can serve as carriers for the controlled release of therapeutic agents. Their high surface area and ability to encapsulate a wide range of drugs make them promising candidates for the targeted delivery of medicines, allowing for controlled release over time. ZIF-8 has been studied for drug encapsulation, particularly for anticancer agents and antibiotics.
Key Benefits of MOFs
- High Surface Area:MOFs have extremely high surface areas, often exceeding 1000m2/g, which makes them ideal for applications like gas storage and separation.
- Tunable Pore Sizes:The ability to customize the pore size of MOFs allows for precise control over the material’s properties and applications
- Chemical Stability:Many MOFs exhibit remarkable chemical stability, allowing them to function effectively in harsh environments.
- Versatility: MOFs can be engineered to suit a wide range of applications, from catalysis to drug delivery, making them invaluable in cutting-edge technologies.
Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are a groundbreading class of materials with enormous potential in a wide range of industries. With their customizable properties, such as high surface area, tunable pore sizes, and chemical stability, MOFs have found critical applications in gas storage, separation, catalysis, drug delivery, and sesors. As research and development continue to advance, MOFs are expected to play an even greater role in addressing some of the most pressing challenges in energy, environmental protection, and healthcare.
Whether you’re looking for materials for advanced catalysts, gas separation, or drug delivery systems, MOFs offer an ideal solution for your needs.