In situ synthesis of a Cu-BTC metal-organic framework (MOF 199) onto cellulosic fibrous substrates: cotton

A mechanism for chemical attachment and growth of a Cu-BTC Metal-Organic Framework, also known as MOF-199 or HKUST-1, onto cellulosic substrates is reported. Four different experimental procedures were attempted in order to elucidate the role of carboxylate groups on the anionic cellulose's surface. The order of addition of Cu(OAc)(2)-copper acetate, BTH3, 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid and TEA-Triethylamine was found to be a critical factor for the attachment and growth of the MOF-199 crystals onto anionic cellulose. The presence of MOF-199 crystals was probed using XRD and XPS spectra and a strong chemical interaction to the carboxymethylated cellulose fibers was confirmed by intense and vigorous washing of the specimens with water, DMF and methanol. Based on the recognized ability of MOF-199 to capture gases and toxic chemicals, combined with the availability of cellulose-based fibrous materials, the described procedure provides the basis for future fabrication of functionalized fibers and active filtration media.