Mild, fast and solvent-driven room-temperature synthesis of lamellar Zn2(bim)4
摘要
A rapid, additive-free, and environmentally friendly synthesis of the two-dimensional metal–organic framework Zn2(bim)4 (ZIF-7-III) is achieved in a variety of green solvents. The reaction proceeds rapidly within 10 min at room temperature, eliminating the need for additives, elevated temperatures, or toxic solvents. Lamellar Zn2(bim)4 was obtained in water, ethanol, n-propanol, i-propanol, butanol, acetone and selected solvent mixtures. The produced metal–organic framework was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The results reveal a pronounced solvent-dependent influence on both product yield and particle morphology. Water affords the highest yield (55%) and spherical particles, whereas alcohols and acetone favor the formation of plate- to disc-like morphologies. Notably, the synthesis and all subsequent washing steps were performed using non-toxic solvents, aligning the process with green chemistry principles. This work establishes a fast, energy-efficient, and sustainable route for producing lamellar Zn2(bim)4, highlighting solvent choice as a key parameter for controlling material properties for various applications.