Monodispersed ZIF-8 particles with enhanced performance for CO2 adsorption and heterogeneous catalysis

Monodispersed zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) were prepared with a simple method using dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) as solvent. This method yields ZIF-8 nanoparticles with a narrow particle size distribution of 90–110   nm and the dispersion is highly stable against agglomeration. These particles have larger nanosized porosity and enhanced CO 2 adsorption capability compared to ZIF-8 prepared with different solvents such as methanol or N , N -dimethyl formamide. Their uniform size and surface chemistry also lead to superior performance in the Knoevenagel condensation reactions. The ZIF-8 nanoparticles possess high thermal stability up to 550   °C and the preparation steps are easy for scaling up which are favorable for industrial applications.