(580b) High Aspect Ratio Metal Organic Framework Synthesis Using Microfluidic Devices

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are a promising class of material for use in applications ranging from separations, storage, drug delivery, optical devices and more. The diversity of synthesis techniques for MOFs with controllable shape and size makes the material interesting to explore. Recently, addition of modulators and structure directing agents has gained momentum as a technique for producing high aspect ratio crystals such as nanorods, nanotubes and nanosheets. Here, a microfluidic device was used to control the synthesis environment of metal organic frameworks. We discuss the creation of different microfluidics devices to control the crystallization of MOFs, and the effect device characteristics have on subsequent MOF crystallization. Channels with variable depth and width can create crystals with different morphologies. The crystallinity of the resulting crystals is characterized. The use of microfluidic synthesis for multiple types of MOFs is discussed, as well as their potential use in future applications.