CHAPTER 2: Synthesis of MOFs

A summary of important – theoretical and practical – aspects, approaches and methods is presented, which are utilized in the synthesis of MOFs. Throughout the text the needs of scientists mainly working in the field of catalysis is addressed. Thus in the first half of the chapter, general principles and methods for crystallisation are briefly summarized, followed by detailed descriptions of the important concepts of isoreticular chemistry and high‐throughput methods. Moreover some examples are given for the use of precursors and templates. Topological rules that may affect the final MOF‐structure can also be utilised for the intentional synthesis of MOFs. The second half of the chapter will cover aspects that are more strongly correlated to materials chemistry – the shaping of crystals as well as the introduction of hierarchical mesopores into the particles and the anchoring of MOFs to surfaces. Finally, some important comments on the activation procedures are given, which determine the maximum porosity of a material and thus its catalytic activity. Thus, the text intends to give an insight into the diverse and sometimes complex field of the synthesis of MOFs.