(475d) Growth of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 Crystals From the Solid-Liquid Interface

Herein, we demonstrate the synthesis of a representative type of zeolitic imidazolate framework: ZIF-8 from the solid-liquid interface using zinc foils both as substrate and reagent. The nucleation of ZIF-8 crystals takes place heterogeneously most likely from the grain boundaries at the metallic surface. A reducing atmosphere, and a decrease in pH during synthesis favored the formation of pure ZIF-8 phase. The direct growth of ZIF-8 crystals from metallic substrates demonstrated in this study may have relevant implications in the formation of continuous and well intergrowth films/membranes with potential use in diverse functional applications. To date, ZIF crystals with different topologies have been grown only from the liquid phase (solution) at room temperature or solvothermally. Herein, we demonstrate the synthesis of ZIF-8 from the solid–liquid interface via solution mediated crystallization.Specifically, ZIF-8 was grown only from zinc foils in the presence of concentrated 2-methylimidazole alcohol solutions in a high pressure stainless steel reactor and in conventional autoclaves. The solution pH and reducing environment were identified as key parameters in the formation of a pure ZIF-8 phase.