In this paper, MOFs containing poly-aromatic functionalities were studied for their use as semiconductor materials. Once synthesis in homogeneous solution was conducted and compared to literature results by powder x-ray diffraction, efforts focused on the growth of MOF films on conductive glass substrates. The synthesis of Co-PIZA and Zn-PIZA on FTO substrates via a solvothermal approach is reported for the first time. The thin films were characterized by SEM and ATR-FTIR. Co-PIZA films are approximately 200 nm thick and comprised of individual crystallites of 50 nm in size. The attachment of MOFs on electrode surfaces allows for the characterization of both the electrochemical and photochemical properties. Co-PIZA and Zn-PIZA exhibit an insulating region in cyclic voltammetric experiments indicative of semiconducting behavior. UV-Vis spectra indicate a band gap of ~1.9 eV. The investigation of these materials as light harvesting photoelectrodes in solar cell applications will be the focus of future investigation.

Metal organic framework thin film semiconductors

244th National Meeting (2012)

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