In situ one-step synthesis of metal–organic framework encapsulated naked Pt nanoparticles without additional reductants

Abstract

The encapsulation of metal nanoparticles (MNPs) into metal–organic frameworks has generated recent research because of the promising novel physical and chemical properties originating from synergetic interactions between MNPs and MOFs. However, the development of a facile one-step approach for the incorporation of tiny MNPs within MOFs without additional stabilizing agents and reductants remains a great challenge. Herein, we report a new and general synthesis strategy for MNPs@MOFs that allows preferential self-assembly of MOFs around the in situ formed MNP surface by directly mixing both the reactive metal (e.g., H₂PtCl₆) and MOF precursors in DMF. This in situ one-step assembly approach is applicable to various MOFs, affording well-defined Pt@MOF composites with highly dispersed naked Pt NPs in narrow diameter distribution. The resulting Pt@MOF nanocomposites exhibit excellent stability, significantly enhanced catalytic activity and selectivity as compared to the commercial Pt/C in liquid-phase aerobic oxidation of alcohols.