• Santourian, Irina

Abstract

Here, we report the synthesis of a unique cubic metal-organic framework (MOF), the Fe-HHTP-MOF, comprising hexahydroxytriphenylene (HHTP) supertetrahedral units and FeIII ions, arranged in a diamond topology. The MOF is synthesized under solvothermal conditions, yielding a highly crystalline, deep black powder, with crystallites of 300-500 nm size and tetrahedral morphology. Nitrogen sorption analysis indicates a highly porous material with a surface area exceeding 1400 m2 g−1. Furthermore, Fe-HHTP-MOF shows broadband absorption from 475 nm up to 1900 nm with excellent absorption capability of 98.5% of the incoming light over the visible spectral region. Electrical conductivity measurements of pressed pellets reveal a high intrinsic electrical conductivity of up to 10−3 S cm−1. Quantum mechanical calculations predict Fe-HHTP-MOF to be an efficient electron conductor, exhibiting continuous charge-carrier pathways throughout the structure. This report expands the paradigm of intrinsically electroactive MOFs, serving as a solid basis for the development of highly porous, ordered frameworks with enhanced electrical conductivity.

Topics

• porous
• impedance spectroscopy
• surface
• Nitrogen
• iron
• electrical conductivity