Issue 12, 2024

Uranyl uptake into metal–organic frameworks: a detailed X-ray structural analysis

Abstract

Metal–organic frameworks (MOF) are a subclass of porous framework materials that have been used for a wide variety of applications in sensing, catalysis, and remediation. Among these myriad applications is their remarkable ability to capture substances in a variety of environments ranging from benign to extreme. Among the most common and problematic substances found throughout the world's oceans and water supplies is [UO2]2+, a common mobile ion of uranium, which is found both naturally and as a result of anthropogenic activities, leading to problematic environmental contamination. While some MOFs possess high capability for the uptake of [UO2]2+, many more of the thousands of MOFs and their modifications that have been produced over the years have yet to be studied for their ability to uptake [UO2]2+. However, studying the thousands of MOFs and their modifications presents an incredibly difficult task. As such, a way to narrow down the numbers seems imperative. Herein, we evaluate the binding behaviors as well as identify the specific binding sites of [UO2]2+ incorporated into six different Zr MOFs to elucidate specific features that improve [UO2]2+ uptake. In doing so, we also present a method for the determination and verification of these binding sites by Anomalous wide-angle X-ray scattering, X-ray fluorescence, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. This research not only presents a way for future research into the uptake of [UO2]2+ into MOFs to be conducted but also a means to evaluate MOFs more generally for the uptake of other compounds to be applied for environmental remediation and improvement of ecosystems globally.

Graphical abstract: Uranyl uptake into metal–organic frameworks: a detailed X-ray structural analysis

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
20 Dec 2023
Accepted
16 Feb 2024
First published
22 Feb 2024

Dalton Trans., 2024,53, 5495-5506

Uranyl uptake into metal–organic frameworks: a detailed X-ray structural analysis

M. P. Heaney, H. M. Johnson, J. G. Knapp, S. Bang, S. Seifert, N. S. Yaw, J. Li, O. K. Farha, Q. Zhang and L. M. Moreau, Dalton Trans., 2024, 53, 5495 DOI: 10.1039/D3DT04284G

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