Modulated self-assembly of metal-organic frameworks

Forgan, R. S. (2020) Modulated self-assembly of metal-organic frameworks. Chemical Science, 11(18), pp. 4546-4562. (doi: 10.1039/D0SC01356K)

Abstract

Exercising fine control over the synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) is key to ensuring reproducibility of physical properties such as crystallinity, particle size, morphology, porosity, defectivity, and surface chemistry. The principle of modulated self-assembly – incorporation of modulator molecules into synthetic mixtures – has emerged as the primary means to this end. This perspective article will detail the development of modulated synthesis, focusing primarily on coordination modulation, from a technique initially intended to cap the growth of MOF crystals to one that is now used regularly to enhance crystallinity, control particle size, induce defectivity and select specific phases. The various mechanistic driving forces will be discussed, as well as the influence of modulation on physical properties and how this can facilitate potential applications. Modulation is also increasingly being used to exert kinetic control over self-assembly; examples of phase selection and the development of new protocols to induce this will be provided. Finally, the application of modulated self-assembly to alternative materials will be discussed, and future perspectives on the area given.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Forgan, Professor Ross
• Authors: Forgan, R. S.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Chemistry
• Journal Name: Chemical Science
• Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry
• ISSN: 2041-6520
• ISSN (Online): 2041-6539
• Published Online: 06 April 2020
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2020 Royal Society of Chemistry
• First Published: First published in Chemical Science 11(18): 4546-4562
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

Project Code	Award No	Project Name	Principal Investigator	Funder's Name	Funder Ref	Lead Dept
172845		SCoTMOF	Ross Forgan	European Research Council (ERC)	677289	Chemistry