Much research in the area of metal-organic frameworks has been in the area of chemical adsorption of the primitive materials. However, real-world applications typically call for an engineered material and not a powder or crystalline solid. We will discuss here the incorporation of MOFs into various polymeric matrices including thin films and electrospun nanofibers. While the incorporation of MOFs into polymeric films can have an adverse effect on the polymer's physical properties, previously unachievable adsorption qualities of a film can be achieved. We will specifically discuss here the incorporation of the MOF HKUST-1 into poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes for the adsorption of ammonia, and the positive effect that the hydrophobic polymer can have on the water stability of the MOF.  Interestingly, controlling the PVDF phase also exhibits an unexpected synergistic effect for the non-polar gas (oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen) adsorption capacity of the MOF. We will discuss these effects, among others, and the tradeoffs that incorporation of MOFs into polymeric matrices can have.

Unexpected synergy in engineered metal-organic frameworks and polymer membranes for military protection applications

256th National Meeting (2018)

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