Isomorphic MOFs functionalized by free-standing acylamide and organic groups serving as self-supported catalysts for the CO2 cycloaddition reaction

Abstract

In this work, we demonstrate the catalysis capability of a series of isomorphic MOFs functionalized on the pore walls by both acylamide and –H, –OH, NH₂, –NO₂ or –COOH groups in terms of the CO₂ cycloaddition reaction. Without any co-catalysts all of these MOF materials exhibited excellent catalysis capability but different catalytic activities depending on the organic groups decorated on the pore wall, revealing the best catalysis capability for a MOF functionalized by –NH₂ groups on the pore walls and a synergetic catalytic effect from both the acylamide and organic groups. Furthermore, we also estimated the recyclability of the –NH₂ functionalized MOF material, and found that the catalyst could be used at least four times without a significant decrease in its catalytic activity.