Simple synthesis recipes of porous materials

Researchers in need of an ordered nanoporous material tend to rely on the original synthesis protocols which often demand hydrothermal synthesis and involve harsh chemical conditions, expensive sacrificial templates and long synthesis times. Considerable efforts have been invested in developing new pathways to simplify synthesis procedures. While in the area of zeolites even with optimum templates intrinsic energy barriers of the crystallization process obstruct the development of easy room temperature synthesis, the synthesis of ordered mesoporous materials and metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are examples of materials for which synthesis can be rationalized and simplified. One key element for the development of room temperature synthesis is the selection of highly efficient templates.

Graphical abstractOrdered mesoporous silica and HKUST-1 MOF materials grow within a minute upon mixing of reagents.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Recent insights in zeolite formation. ► Room temperature synthesis of MOF, HKUST-1. ► Fast synthesis of mesoporous silica at room temperature and near neutral pH.