Development of MWCNT@MIL-101 hybrid composite with enhanced adsorption capacity for carbon dioxide

In this study, we have synthesized a hybrid composite of acid treated multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and metal organic framework MIL-101 and denoted as MWCNT@MIL-101. For synthesis of this composite, well dispersed MWCNTs in dimethylformamide were mixed with hydrofluoric acid solution of chromium nitrate nonahydrate and terephthalic acid. The MWCNT@MIL-101 obtained has the same crystal structure and morphology as that of virgin MIL-101, but carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption capacity is increased about 60% (from 0.84 to 1.35 mmol g−1) at 298 K and 10 bar. The increment in the CO2 adsorption capacity of MWCNT@MIL-101 is attributed to the increase of micropore volume of MIL-101 by MWCNT incorporation.

► A hybrid composite of MWCNTs and MIL-101 was synthesized.
► The resulting samples were characterized by BET, SEM, TGA, FT-IR and XRD analysis.
► Carbon dioxide adsorption capacity over MIL-101 increased about 60%.
► MWCNTs incorporation enhanced micropore volume and CO2 adsorption capacity.