The dimensionality of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can be altered to form products with 3D, 2D, and 1D topologies.  These topologies have different physical properties and can be applied for distinct applications.  Metal-organic nanotubes (MONTs) are the one-dimensional variant of MOFs and are less common then typical 3D networks.  To date, MONTs have been synthesized through various solvothermal syntheses; however, these reactions all yield 3D nanotube aggregates where the tubes are stacked together.  As expected, these packed clusters of MONTs have physical properties similar to 3D MOFs.  To date, the preparation and characterization of a true discrete metal-organic nanotube remains a challenge.  In order to synthesize a discrete MONT, their growth mechanism must be understood.  This research combines rational MONT design (through pillar architecture) with small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering to clarify the growth mechanism between a 1D MONT and a 2D MOFs synthesized with structurally similar ligands.

Tubes vs sheets: A mechanistic investigation of MOF dimensionality

255th National Meeting (2018)

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