(402a) Bent-but-Not-Broken: Elastomeric-Based Composites with Metal-Organic Frameworks for Protection Applications

The maturation and ultimate use of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) in practical applications requires the incorporation of crystals into functional composites. Combining MOFs with polymers can result in a wide range of functional materials; however, one must be cognizant of the interplay between MOF and polymer such that the high porosity and chemistry of the MOF remains intact within the composite.

In this work, we report on the development of MOF-based composites for enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) through a phase inversion process using poly(styrene-block-ethylene-ran-butylene-block-styrene), SEBS. We focus on incorporation of various MOFs to develop broad spectrum filtration and enhanced diffusional characteristics in comparison to MOF powder. Furthermore, the use of elastomeric-based composites leads to improved barrier materials for protective suits that are not prone to attrition and detoxify chemical warfare agents. The use of SEBS also stabilizes the MOF structure HKUST-1, which is otherwise prone to hydrolysis from ambient moisture.

Similar aging tendencies were seen with another elastomer, poly(ethylene-block-amide), Pebax, with the added benefit of tuning wetting properties of fibers during a dipcoating/phase inversion process. Beyond the applications studied, initial investigations are reported on additional polymers to begin understanding which combinations result in pore blockage vs. which combinations allow for optimal transport and uptake of toxic chemicals. The tunability of these MOF-based composites using a variety of block copolymer can provide for enhanced physical and chemical properties, ultimately leading to improved protection materials.