Topological Derivative Strategy for Large-Pore Three-Dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks
Haorui Zheng1, Hui Li1, Jie Ji1
1State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, P. R. China.
Journal of the American Chemical Society
|October 21, 2025
Summary
Researchers designed novel three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (3D COFs) using topology-driven strategies. This approach successfully created ultralarge pores up to 5.1 nm, overcoming structural interpenetration challenges in porous materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Developing three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (3D COFs) with ultralarge pores is hindered by structural interpenetration.
- Interpenetration often leads to smaller, less accessible pores, limiting applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To overcome interpenetration challenges in 3D COF synthesis.
- To design and synthesize 3D COFs with ultralarge, accessible pores using a topology-driven approach.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a topology-driven design strategy based on edge-transitive scu nets.
- Transformed scu nets into mmm and jcg derivative frameworks via symmetry-controlled monomer selection.
- Characterized framework structures and pore sizes using advanced techniques, including macromolecular encapsulation studies.
Main Results:
- Synthesized two distinct series of 3D COFs: mmm (JUC-693 to JUC-695) and jcg (JUC-696 to JUC-698).
- The jcg series frameworks exhibited controlled pore expansion, achieving a record pore diameter of 5.1 nm in JUC-698.
- Macromolecular encapsulation studies confirmed the integrity and accessibility of the engineered ultralarge pores.
Conclusions:
- Topology-directed design is a powerful strategy for overcoming interpenetration barriers in porous materials.
- This approach enables the creation of 3D COFs with precisely controlled ultralarge pores.
- The developed frameworks hold potential for applications requiring high surface area and selective molecular transport.
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