Sub-micron spheres of an imine-based covalent organic framework: supramolecular functionalization and water-dispersibility

The one-pot room-temperature condensation reaction between 1,3,5-tris.4-aminophenyl)benzene and 1,3,5-benzenetricarbox-aldehyde in acetone leads to the fast formation of a homogeneous dispersion of well-defined spherical particles of an imine-based covalent organic framework (sRT-COF-1). Supramolecular functionalization of sRT-COF-1 with a variety of surfactants significantly increases the water dispersibility of sRT-COF-1.