Fe3O4@HKUST-1 magnetic composites by mechanochemical route for induction triggered release of carbon dioxide

Abstract HKUST-1 metal-organic framework (MOF) and Fe3O4@HKUST-1 magnetic framework composites (MFCs) were developed by a simple and sustainable liquid assisted mechanochemical synthesis process. The growth of the MOF crystalline structure was directed on the surface of functionalized magnetite particles, which act as “crystallization germs”. The nanomaterials were characterized in their structural, morphological, and thermal properties and were tested for CO2/N2 mixture separation. All samples exhibits good carbon dioxide adsorption and selectivity for the CO2/N2 mixture. In the case of magnetic composites, the application of an external alternating magnetic field induces nanoparticles’ heating and the locally generated heat triggers carbon dioxide release from the MOF. The magnetic composites combine the adsorbing properties of the organic component and the heating capacity of magnetic nanoparticles, MNPs, representing innovative sorbent systems for the implementation of a separation technology named Magnetic Induction Swing Adsorption (MISA). This technology takes advantage of the highly efficient energy transfer typical of induction heating for the regeneration of adsorption beds and promises energy savings. The effectiveness of the desorption process depends on the magnetic materials properties and in this work has been improved by tuning the characteristic of the magnetic component.