(602g) Synthesis and Characterization of Two-Dimensional Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Films

Macroscopically uniform and pinhole-free two-dimensional (2D) zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) films with ordered intrinsic nanoporosity are desirable for applications in separations, sensing, and patterning. However, limiting the synthesis of ZIF films to two dimensions has proven challenging. In this presentation, I will discuss epitaxial growth of macroscopically uniform 2DZIF films on graphitic substrates with thickness down to that of a single structural building unit. The film thickness can be adjusted from a single layer to a few layers by increasing the growth time. The 2DZIF film has a rigid aperture made of a six-membered zinc-imidazolate coordination ring with an effective gap of 3.2 Å and exhibits high permselective H₂ flux. The method reported here will likely accelerate the development of 2D crystalline metal-organic framework films for membrane application.