Controllable synthesis of metal-organic framework/polyethersulfone composites

Abstract

Composite materials that contain metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as a filler and a polymer matrix have attracted attention because they present a combination of high porosity and structural integrity. Phase compatibilities of the MOF and polymer play a vital role in the formation of the composites. In particular, the stiff polymer cannot easily adapt to penetrate into the surface pore of MOF and mainly depends on chemical attractions to form the MOF/polymer composites. We report the synthesis of MOF/polyethersulfone (Young's modulus = ~2.6 GPa) via different fabrication methods, different MOF types and particle sizes, and different solvents. The formed network structures are robust, monolithic composites with 60% MOF loadings; also, the MOF surface area and porosity were fully preserved. The study explored the formation of the composite between MOF and a stiff polymer and encourages the design of more MOF/polymer composite materials across a wide range of applications.