Simple and Efficient Regeneration of MOF-5 and HKUST-1 via Acid-Base Treatment

Abstract

Simple and efficient regeneration of MOF-5 and HKUST-1 is demonstrated via add base treatment. The reactants are recovered simply by dissolving the deteriorated MOFs in strong acid. Pristine MOFs are regenerated in high yields by adjusting the solution pH via either in situ base formation or ex situ base addition. Both regeneration protocols are environmentally benign and cost-effective because the reactants in the deteriorated MOFs are recycled. Especially the ex situ base addition protocol can be done in a cheap and environmentally friendly ethanol/water mixed solvent at ambient condition and is suitable for large-scale batch regeneration owing to the simple procedure and short reaction time.