U(VI) capture from aqueous solution by highly porous and stable MOFs: UiO-66 and its amine derivative

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) UiO-66 and its amine derivative (UiO-66-NH 2 ) with high surface area and unprecedented chemical stability were synthesized and first explored for U(VI) capture from aqueous solutions. At pH 5.5, U(VI) sorption reach equilibrium in ca. 4 h and the maximum sorption capacity is more than 100 mg g −1 . Moreover, they show desirable selectivity towards U(VI) over a range of competing metal ions. Sorption results demonstrate that introduction of amino groups into MOFs does not enhance U(VI) sorption, probably result from the lower activity of aromatic amines, decrease of surface area and formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonds.