Controllable synthesis of hollow ZIF-8 microspheres via interface reaction with enhanced CO2 adsorption

Hollow zeolite imidazolate frameworks (HZIFs) have a wide application prospect, but the controllable synthesis still keeps a great challenge. Herein, hollow ZIF-8 microspheres are fabricated using a simple mechanical emulsification method by controlling the feeding rate of precursors. The hierarchically porous structure with uniform morphology and size, high crystallization, abundant base sites, and meso/macro pores endows the as-fabricated hollow ZIF-8 superior CO2 adsorption capacity. This work provides new opportunities for controllable synthesis of HZIFs and their applications in the separation and purification of gases.

Automated summary

In this study, hollow ZIF-8 microspheres were successfully synthesized using a simple mechanical emulsification method. The as-fabricated microspheres exhibited uniform morphology, ordered porous structure, and high CO2 adsorption capacity, providing new opportunities for the controllable synthesis of HZIFs and their applications in gas separation and purification.