This study investigates a rapid and eco-friendly synthesis method for ZIF-8. Traditional synthesis approaches, such as solvothermal and wet chemical methods, are often limited by long reaction times and the use of hazardous organic solvents. To address these challenges, the researchers employed a microwave-assisted hydrothermal technique in an aqueous solution, using triethylamine (TEA) as a catalyst to promote crystal growth and enhance the specific surface area (SSA).

The study specifically explored the impact of reaction time on the purity and crystallinity of the resulting framework. By varying the duration from 5 minutes to 1 hour, it was determined that 15 minutes is the optimal reaction time at 180 ^oC. At shorter durations (5–10 minutes), the energy was insufficient for full conversion, leaving zinc oxide (ZnO) impurities. Conversely, longer reaction times (30–60 minutes) caused the ZIF-8 to decompose back into ZnO due to prolonged thermal exposure. 

Characterization of the 15-minute sample revealed high-quality crystals with two distinct shapes: truncated rhombic dodecahedron and cubic, with an average size of 0.510 µm. The material exhibited a high BET surface area of 1652.06 m²g^-1 and a microporous structure, which the authors suggest is ideal for applications like water desalination, gas separation, and catalysis. Additionally, the framework demonstrated thermal stability up to 400 ^oC and a direct band gap of 4.94 eV. This innovative approach significantly reduces production time while maintaining high purity, offering a promising route for sustainable, commercial-scale ZIF-8 manufacturing.

 Figure 1: XRD of ZIF-8 powder synthesis at different reaction times

Figure 2: TGA and DTG curves of ZIF-8 powder synthesized at 15 min

Source:

Shantidevi Dhanasegaran, Yiin Jian Low, Kieng Hang Chin, Nurul Huda Osman, Mazliana Ahmad Kamarudin, Yap Wing Fen, Ikhwan Syafiq Mohd Noor, Mohd Hafizuddin Ab Ghani, Han Kee Lee, Sarva Mangala Praveena, Toto Sudiro, Zainal Abidin Talib, and Josephine Ying Chyi Liew*

(https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/masy.202400066)

Date of Input: 23/12/2025 | Updated: 23/12/2025 | roslina_ar