Layer-by-layer fabrication of oriented porous thin films based on porphyrin-containing metal-organic frameworks

We report the synthesis and characterization of two thin films (DA-MOF and L2-MOF) of porphyrin-based MOFs on functionalized surfaces using a layer-by-layer (LbL) approach. Profilometry measurements confirm that the film thickness increases systematically with number of growth cycles. Polarization excitation and fluorescence measurements indicate that the porphyrin units are preferentially oriented, while X-ray reflectivity scans point to periodic ordering. Ellipsometry measurements show that the films are highly porous. Since there are currently few methods capable of yielding microporous MOFs containing accessible free-base porphyrins, it is noteworthy that the LbL growth permits direct MOF incorporation of unmetalated porphyrins. Long-range energy transfer is demonstrated for both MOF films. The findings offer useful insights for subsequent fabrication of MOF-based solar energy conversion devices.