Minimization of Surface Energies and Ripening Outcompete Template Effects in the Surface Growth of Metal-Organic Frameworks

Abstract

As well-oriented, surface-bound metal-organic frameworks become the centerpiece of many new applications, a profound understanding of their growth mode becomes necessary. This work shows that the currently favored model of surface templating is in fact a special case valid only for systems with a more or less cubic crystal shape, while in less symmetric systems crystal ripening and minimization of surface energies dominate the growth process.

Keywords: adsorption; crystal growth; metal-organic frameworks; surface analysis; surface chemistry.