One-step rapid fabrication of MOF@polymer core–shell particles through non-solvent induced surface deposition

Abstract

This work presents a rapid and generalizable method to construct well-defined MOF@polymer core–shell composite particles to improve the processability of the MOF. The method utilizes a one-step coating process called non-solvent induced surface deposition to quantitatively deposit a prescribed amount of polyimide, polymer of intrinsic microporosity-1 (PIM-1), or polysulfone on to a variety of MOF surfaces as a sub-20 nm uniform layer within a matter of seconds. Our results show for the first time that the uniform polymer coating can effectively protect the MOF particles from mechanical damage under external compression force during pelletization, thus leading to more densely packed pellets with better retained porosity. Meanwhile, the defect-free polymer coating can also serve as a shield to considerably enhance the chemical stability and anti-weathering properties of the pellet, thus maintaining the structural integrity of the pellet under harsh conditions. This coating and shaping method provides a low-cost and scalable solution towards high-density MOF pellets suitable for gas storage related applications.