Issue 27, 2024

Regulation on C2H2/CO2 adsorption and separation by molecular rotors in metal–organic frameworks

Abstract

The introduction of molecular rotors with distinct kinetic characteristics into metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) imparts these materials with heightened responsiveness, facilitating precise control over gas molecule recognition, adsorption as well as separation. This enhancement translates into improved performance in separating light hydrocarbons. In this investigation, three MOF materials (In-NDC, SNNU-118, and SNNU-128) were synthesized with two molecular rotor-containing ligands, 1,4-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (1,4-NDC) and 9,10-anthracenedicarboxylic acid (9,10-ADC). Among these materials, In-NDC and SNNU-118 exist as supramolecular isomers. Through meticulous adjustment of synthesis conditions, successful structural transformations were achieved. Unlike In-NDC, the rotational flexibility of the molecular rotor 1,4-NDC endows SNNU-118 with distinctive adsorption behavior, manifesting as a gate-opening effect induced by the rotation of the molecular rotor. This phenomenon is facilitated by electrostatic repulsion between 1,4-NDC and CO2 during the adsorption process. Additionally, the electrostatic attraction between the framework and C2H2 molecules significantly enhances C2H2 adsorption at low pressure, thereby improving selectivity for C2H2. Compared to In-NDC, the IAST selectivity values increased from 4.55 to 17.05. Dynamic breakthrough experiments demonstrate the effective separation capabilities of both In-NDC and SNNU-118 in separating C2H2/CO2 mixed gases.

Graphical abstract: Regulation on C2H2/CO2 adsorption and separation by molecular rotors in metal–organic frameworks

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
15 May 2024
Accepted
30 May 2024
First published
31 May 2024

J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 16427-16437

Regulation on C2H2/CO2 adsorption and separation by molecular rotors in metal–organic frameworks

L. Yang, J. Yu, S. Fan, Y. Wang, W. Yuan and Q. Zhai, J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, 12, 16427 DOI: 10.1039/D4TA03374D

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