Synthesis and application of core–shell magnetic metal–organic framework composites Fe3O4/IRMOF-3

Abstract

A new type of magnetic core–shell structured MOF composite (Fe₃O₄/IRMOF-3) was successfully prepared by a facile mixed solvothermal method. Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) are the magnetic core and promoter, respectively. Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are encapsulated completely inside the MOF matrix. PVP not only functions as the stabilizer to make the Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles well dispersed but also provides the ability to adsorb IRMOF-3 precursors onto the surface of the Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles. The composite possesses high crystallinity, porosity characteristics, a rapid magnetic response and good stability. In addition, the catalytic performance of Fe₃O₄/IRMOF-3 is investigated via the Knoevenagel condensation reaction of benzaldehyde and ethyl cyanoacetate. The conversion of ethyl cyanoacetate reaches 98.3% after 4 hours. More importantly, the catalyst can be quickly separated by a magnet and reused many times.