A NiII-cluster-based MOF as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the chemical transformation of CO2

Abstract

A novel 3D metal–organic framework based on Ni₄ clusters as nodes has been synthesized using a tetrahedral linker of 5,5′,5′′-(methylsilanetriyl)triisophthalic acid (H₆L). The compound possesses 1D channels with potential pore volumes that can accommodate guest molecules. Investigations on the coupling reaction of epoxides and CO₂ indicate that the compound can be used as an efficient catalyst for CO₂ chemical fixation, and its catalytic performance is greatly superior to most MOF-based catalysts. Additionally, compound 1 can be recycled at least five times without compromising its activity.