Mechanically and chemically robust ZIF-8 monoliths with high volumetric adsorption capacity

We report an easy synthetic procedure to produce large, crystalline, mechanically and chemically robust ZIF-8 monoliths without using any binders or high pressures. Gas adsorption studies show that the monolithic structures retain the characteristic porosity of ZIF-8 without any damage to the micropore system, while the bulk densities and volumetric BET areas are 3 times higher than the conventional, powder material. In addition, these structures are substantially more rigid than single crystals of the material.