Polymerization led selective detection and removal of Zn2+ and Cd2+ ions: isolation of Zn- and Cd-MOFs and reversibility studies

Abstract

This work illustrates two post-functionalized chemosensors and their remarkable role in the sensing of Zn²⁺ and Cd²⁺ ions via producing the corresponding insoluble metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). The structural characterization of the resultant Zn- and Cd-MOFs revealed their polymeric one- or two-dimensional architectures. Importantly, nitrate and nitrite ions reversed the MOF-polymerization process and regenerated the chemosensors and the corresponding metal salts. These results are significant in terms of recyclability and remediation processes for the removal of metals both from living organisms and the environment.