Transition from ZIF-L-Co to ZIF-67: a new insight into the structural evolution of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) in aqueous systems

Abstract

A novel Co-containing zeolitic imidazolate framework with a leaf-like morphology (ZIF-L-Co) was synthesized in aqueous media and proved to be the transient phase in the formation of ZIF-67. The phase and morphology of the products could be tailored by changing the concentration and molar ratio of the reagents. Our study herein provides a new insight into the crystal growth of ZIFs.