Mesoporous Cu_3−xZn_x(BTC)₂ nanocubes synthesized in deep eutectic solvent and their catalytic performances

To develop high-performance metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for catalysis is of great importance. Here, we synthesized the mesoporous Cu_3−xZn_x(BTC)₂ (BTC = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate) nanocubes in a deep eutectic solvent of ZnCl₂/ethylene glycol solution. The route can proceed at room temperature and the reaction time needed is shortened to be 30 min, which is superior to the conventional solvothermal route that usually needs high temperature and long reaction time. The formation mechanism of the mesoporous Cu_3−xZn_x(BTC)₂ nanocubes in deep eutectic solvent (DES) was investigated by in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction/small angle X-ray scattering/X-ray absorption fine structure conjunction technique. The mesoporous Cu_3−xZn_x(BTC)₂ nanocubes exhibit high catalytic activity and reusability for cyanosilylation reaction of benzaldehyde and aerobic oxidation reaction of benzylic alcohol.