Comparative study of Metal-Organic frameworks (MOFs) for indoor moisture control
Dong Ding, Menghao Qin
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are an emerging class of crystalline porous materials that have garnered significant attention for their exceptional adsorption capabilities. Although many different MOFs have been synthesized and reported, only a few have been applied for indoor moisture control. Developing more promising new MOFs and classifying them according to their characteristics, application scenarios, and application methods is one of the primary works that should be done. In this study, four distinct MOFs with good water vapor adsorption performance but different adsorption characteristics are prepared. Among them, MIL-100(Fe) and MOF-303 have been reported in different water adsorption-related applications, while Al-PDA and Al-MIL-muc are newly synthesized. Furthermore, not only MOF’s water vapor adsorption properties but also desorption and regeneration conditions are studied. The results show that MOFs exhibit S-shaped isotherms, ordered and regular hysteresis scanning curves, significantly higher water adsorption capacities, considerably milder regeneration conditions, and faster desorption kinetics compared to commercial sorbent, zeolite 13X. Al-MIL-muc can be easily regenerated under 50 °C while the other three MOFs can be fully regenerated under 70 °C. Al-MIL-muc is recommended for autonomous indoor moisture control within the range of 40 % to 65 % RH. Al-PDA and MOF-303 are better suited for integration into mechanical systems, such as adsorption heat pumps and desiccant dehumidifiers. MIL-100(Fe) is highly versatile and applicable across various contexts.