Teaching copolymerization catalysis to metal–organic frameworks by confining molecular catalysts in lattices

Abstract

Copolymerization catalysis remains underexplored compared to the broad range of other catalytic reactions promoted by metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). Here, we report a lattice-confinement strategy that immobilizes a highly active molecular complex within MOFs, transforming them into effective heterogeneous catalysts for copolymerization—that couples cyclohexene oxide and CO₂ into poly(cyclohexene carbonate) or integrates epoxide and phthalic anhydride into ester-ether copolymers. The encapsulated catalytically active species not only introduce new reaction patterns for MOFs but also enhance the structural robustness of the lattice, enabling the catalyst to be recycled multiple times.