MXene Derived Metal–Organic\nFrameworks

Abstract

Synthesis of nanoscale metal–organic frameworks\n(MOFs) is\na highly challenging task because conventional soluble metal salt\nprecursors are not easy to manipulate spatially, thus normally leading\nto bulk MOFs. In the present work, V₂CT_<i>x</i> MXene is demonstrated for the first time as a metal precursor\nto fabricate two-dimensional (2D) MOF nanosheets, whose thickness\n(6 to 18 nm) can be tuned by varying the reaction temperature. The\nhighly electronegative surface atoms of MXene and sufficient accessible\nattacking sites for ligands are responsible for the evolution of 2D\nMOF nanosheets. Moreover, highly oriented and smooth MOF thin films\nhave been grown based on these nanosheets using a convenient spin\ncoating process. With the impregnation of nonvolatile H₃PO₄, the MOF thin film exhibits a proton-conducting property.\nThis study demonstrates that high-quality 2D MOF sheets and thin films\nare enabled by 2D MXene precursors. We believe that the high-quality\nMOF films prepared in this study pave the way for many device applications.