Hierarchical embedding of micro-mesoporous MIL-101(Cr) in macroporous poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) high internal phase emulsions with monolithic shape for vapor adsorption applications

•Embedding MIL-101(Cr) into macroporous high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs).•Shaping of metal-organic frameworks into monoliths.•Hierarchical and mechanically stable monolithic composites for heat transformation.•Favored vapor adsorption of composites compared to native HIPEs.•Pre-polymerization of HIPE emulsion for highly porous composites.

Shaping metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), normally obtained as powders or microcrystals, e.g., into monoliths is one indispensable factor for potential applications of MOFs. MIL-101(Cr) as a water stable micro- and mesoporous network was successfully embedded into a macroporous and monolithic oil–water (o/w) high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) foam, based on crosslinked poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate). These hierarchical and mechanically stable monolithic composite materials with up to 59 wt% of MIL-101(Cr) show higher methanol and water vapor uptake capacities compared to the pure HIPE.

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