Vectorial Catalysis in Surface-Anchored Nanometer-Sized Metal–Organic Frameworks-Based Microfluidic Devices

Abstract

Vectorial catalysis—controlling multi-step reactions in a programmed sequence and by defined spatial localization in a microscale device—is an enticing goal in bio-inspired catalysis research. However, translating concepts from natural cascade biocatalysis into artificial hierarchical chemical systems remains a challenge. Herein, we demonstrate integration of two different surface-anchored nanometer-sized metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in a microfluidic device for modelling vectorial catalysis. Catalyst immobilization at defined sections along the microchannel and a two-step cascade reaction was conducted with full conversion after 30 seconds and high turnover frequencies (TOF≈105 h−1).