We are investigating methods to prepare porous crystalline solids based on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) composed of organic molecules and metal ions. MOFs are new functional materials that are now being used in a range of applications that include storage of gases (e.g., hydrogen), delivery of drugs, catalysis of organic reactions, and molecular separations. Toward this goal, we are investigating using solid-state synthesis to synthesize MOFs by grinding organic ligands and transition metal salts together in the absence of solvents. Here we report the attempts at room temperature and hydrothermal synthesis along with the successful solid-state synthesis and characterization of a MOF composed of urocanic acid (3-(3H-imidazol-4-yl)prop-2-enoic acid) and copper (II) nitrate.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• McGoff, Marshall S.

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042308-173449

Advisor

• MacDonald, John C.

Year

• 2008

Sponsor

• Army Research Office

Date created

• 2008-04-23

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Chemistry

Rights statement

• In Copyright