The progression of Al-based metal-organic frameworks - From academic research to industrial production and applications

Al-based metal-organic frameworks (Al-MOFs) were first prepared and intensively studied by Ferey and co-workers. They synthesized and characterized various new structures (e.g. MIL-53, MIL-96, MIL-100, MIL-110). In parallel, BASF SE developed an own portfolio of MOFs. The synthesis for one of these Al-MOFs (Basolite A520) has recently been optimized to allow for organic solvent-free preparation. Basolite A520 can now be synthesized in a water-based route that has already led to ton-scale production. Thereby the Al-MOF is industrially produced via both an economic and environmentally compatible process. This reliable access together with their adsorption properties paves the way to the broad application of MOFs. The latter is driven by the current global megatrends that require innovative applications by high potential materials. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.