Synthesis, structural characterization, and carbon dioxide and hydrogen adsorption of a new three-dimensional metal organic framework Zn(BTC)4

Abstract

A novel three-dimensional porous metal organic framework Zn(BTC)4 (BTC = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid) is synthesized by the solvothermal method. This structure is characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. This metal organic framework crystallizes in a monoclinic (P2(1)/n, V = 1795.7(2) Å3, Z = 4, Dc = 1.449 mg/cm3, α = 90.00°, β = 97.2200(10)°, γ = 90.00°, a = 9.5077(5) Å, b = 16.3950(16) Å, c = 11.6119(9) Å). The thermogravimetric analysis shows the material can be stabilized up to 350 °C, then the skeleton collapses between 350~510 °C. A luminescence test shows that the material gives out strong emission at 384 and 462 nm. The hydrogen storage capacity of this metal organic framework is 2.01 wt% at 77 K and a pressure of 10 bar. The carbon dioxide storage capacity of this metal organic framework is 4.17 mmol/g at 298 K and a pressure of 10 bar.