Processing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) into hierarchical macroscopic materials can greatly extend their practical applications. However, current strategies suffer from severe aggregation of MOFs and limited tuning of the hierarchical porous network. Now, a strategy is presented that can simultaneously tune the MOF loading, composition, spatial distribution, and confinement within various bio-originated macroscopic supports, as well as control the accessibility, robustness, and formability of the support itself. This method enables the good dispersion of individual MOF nanoparticles on a spiderweb-like network within each macrovoid even at high loadings (up to 86 wt %), ensuring the foam pores are highly accessible for excellent adsorption and catalytic capacity. Additionally, this approach allows the direct pre-incorporation of other functional components into the framework. This strategy provides precise control over the properties of both the hierarchical support and MOF.
Keywords: foams; high internal phase emulsions; metal-organic frameworks; oil/water separation; organic-inorganic hybrid composites.
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