One-Step Fabrication of an Ambient-Curable Hierarchical Porous Composite via Synergistic Emulsion Stabilization, Cross-Linking, and In Situ Metal–Organic Framework Growth

Integrating metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) into polymerized high internal phase emulsions (PolyHIPEs) significantly increases the specific surface area and enhances functionalities such as adsorption and catalytic capabilities. However, most existing MOF@PolyHIPE composites face challenges, such as poor water resistance, low mechanical strength, and complex synthesis processes. Herein, we present a one-step water-in-oil (W/O) high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) strategy to fabricate hierarchical porous ZnO@ZIF-8@PolyHIPE composites with tunable micro/macropores and uniformly distributed ZIF-8. A molecularly engineered ambient-curable amphiphilic copolymer containing acetoacetoxy groups enables ambient-condition dual cross-linking (chemical/ionic), achieving rapid curing and robust mechanical properties with a Young's modulus of 2.21 MPa at a low density of 95 mg/cm3. ZnO nanoparticles play three synergistic roles: stabilizing HIPE interfaces, cross-linking copolymers to enhance structural integrity, and acting as zinc sources for in situ ZIF-8 growth. The optimized composite exhibits a large BET surface area of 229.8 m2/g compared to those of ZnO@ZIF-8@PolyHIPE composites, exceptional iodine adsorption capacity, and scalable processability. This work provides a versatile platform for designing hierarchical multifunctional materials for adsorption, catalysis, and separation applications.