High yield synthesis of Ni-BTC metal–organic framework with ultrasonic irradiation: Role of polar aprotic DMF solvent

• Ultrasonic synthesis of Ni-MOF and the choice of correct solvent during treatment.
• Effect of varying ultrasonic power along with probe temperature upon MOF yield has been determined.
• 80% ultrasonic power with 60 °C probe temperature has proved to be the optimum process parameter.

Nickel based porous solid was synthesized with 20 kHz ultrasonic irradiation. The reaction of Ni(II) nitrate hexahydrate with 1,3,5-benzene tricarboxylic acid in N,N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) as the sole solvent under ultrasonic radiation produced porous Ni-BTC MOF. Choice of correct solvent for the ultrasonic treatment was proven important. The effect of varying ultrasonic powers (40%, 60% and 80% of 750 W) along with different temperature conditions (50 °C, 60 °C, 70 °C and 80 °C) influenced the respective yield. A very high yield of 88% Ni-BTC MOF was obtained from 80% ultrasonic power at 60 °C. BET surface areas of the MOF crystals measured by N2 gas adsorption isotherms were in the range of 960–1000 m2/g.