Targeted control of the surface chemistry of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) is of interest for many potential applications. Postsynthetic exchange (PSE) can be used to control surface chemistry by replacement of the outer connecting linkers of the frameworks. When the exchanged linker is large, substitution typically occurs at the surface, however, there is also the possibility in this case of sterically blocking access to the internal framework pore structure. When the exchanged linker is small, exchange can occur both at the surface and throughout the framework. Herein, we show that PSE time can influence the distribution of ligands throughout metal organic framework particles using a combination of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ball-milling, and argon bombardment. Shorter PSE times led to greater surface exchange relative to bulk exchange. Additionally, XPS and X-ray diffraction shed light on structural differences between MOFs synthesized directly and those synthesized via post synthetic exchange.

XPS study of the control and elucidation of MOF surface chemistry

ACS Fall 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.