Defects in metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are known to influence adsorption properties, and are thus critical to the ultimate success of MOFs in industrial applications. The type and distribution of defects depends on the synthesis conditions. Herein, we explore the use of low-energy ball-milling, a physical method, to intentionally create defects in UiO-66 nanoparticles. UiO-66 is a thermally and chemically robust MOF comprised of zirconium oxide clusters connected with benzenedicarboxylate linkers. Below a threshold energy level during ball-milling, the nanoparticles appear intact by SEM, however, evidence suggests the presence of impact-induced defects. We utilize a combination of methods, including TGA, DSC, DLS and IR spectroscopy to quantify and characterize the presence of these impact-induced defects.

Creation of defects in UiO-66 via ball-milling

ACS Spring 2022

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