Abstract:
The present study demonstrates a soft-template-assisted synthesis route to the preparation of a hierarchical
microporous–mesoporous Cu-BTC metal–organic framework. The supramolecular assembly of dicationic
quaternary ammonium structure-directing agents cooperatively interacts with Cu-BTC framework
coordination layers via a weak electrostatic interaction and self-assemble to form a Cu-BTC framework
containing a hierarchical system of mesopores interconnected with micropores. Pore-size distribution
measurements revealed that the produced metal–organic framework has a bimodal pore-size distribution
consisting of micropores and mesopores. Materials prepared with the di-cationic structuredirecting
agent and swelling agent 1,3,5-trimethyl benzene showed further improvement in the mesopore
diameter. The hierarchical Cu-BTC framework demonstrated higher CO2 uptake capacity and better oxidation
activity in reactions involving large molecules, when compared to the conventional Cu-BTC
framework.
