Multi-step tandem functionalization assembly of MOFs-based hybrid polymeric films for color tuning luminescence and responsive sensing on organic vapors

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a promising class of porous crystalline materials which can be functionalized by versatile postsynthetic modification (PSM) for further practical applications. Whereas, such crystalline nature of MOFs stands as a serious obstacle to their desired shaping and manufacture for further practical applications. Herein, a multi-step tandem functionalization assembly strategy is employed to fabricate a luminescent MOF-based hybrid polymeric film to endow the luminescent MOFs with processability and applicability. In detail, Eu3+ ions are introduced into ZnMOF-5-NH2 frameworks to create a red emitting-center firstly. Next, methacrylic anhydride is incorporated to react with amino functional groups of Eu-ZnMOF-5-NH2 to obtain EuMOF-L with unsaturated bonds by a covalent PSM strategy. Finally, the copolymerization reaction took place between Eu-MOF-L and monomers (butyl methacrylate) which initiated by benzoyl peroxide. The polymeric hybrid film (Eu-MOF-L@PBMA film) is soft, flexible, and homogeneous. The physical characterization and the luminescence properties of these hybrid materials were studied in details. The multi-color luminescence of these hybrids and their polymeric hybrid films are tuned by optimizing the critical parameters to serve as a white-light emitting device. Furthermore, Eu-MOF-L@PBMA film is utilized for the detection of volatile organic vapors. In terms of their distinct color variation, an effective dual-readout method assists in sensing volatile organic vapors, especially organic amine vapors.