I am trying to synthesize a cobalt-based MOF according to methods mentioned in the literature. But, a number of various solvents have been utilized in the literature. Hence I am so confused about the way I should select an appropriate solvent in this case. Accordingly my question is: In order to select a proper solvent to synthesize a given MOF, which properties of the solvent are of greatest importance or have to be taken into consideration?
Dear Ali
The following review perhaps give the required information about MOF synthesis and the role of the solvent in the reaction.
Article Dependence of solvents, pH, molar ratio and temperature in t...
Are you trying to make a known MOF? Or just using a known procedure to make a new one?
Solvent choice depends on what you're trying to do with the solid once you have it. If you want to do gas sorption studies, stay away from "sticky" solvents like pyridine or DMF (which are hard to remove without solvent exchange) and pure water (which has high surface tension, so it may collapse the pores in your solid when you remove it, although this is less of a problem with 3D frameworks).
If you need large crystals, DMF is a good choice, as it decomposes into dimethylamine, so it provides a slow source of base, so you can get larger crystals.
Dear Dr Kooti
your recommended article seems interesting. I will study it. Thank you.
Dear Laura
Actually, I am trying to find (or synthesize!) new MOFs in order to use in batteries. And, I am going to avoid trial and error method and I seriously prefer to select the involving parameters (like solvent) rationally. Do you have any idea on the solvent selection in this application (I mean in batteries)?
please have a look at the Ref. given below.
Article Exploring metal organic frameworks for energy storage in bat...
Good luck!
- Badges
- Science topic