Quantitative analysis of the effects of BTC and related synthesis factor optimization on the performance of MIL-100(Fe)

As a prominent member of the Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) family and a focal point in nanocarrier research, MIL-100(Fe) offers significant potential for enhancing derivative products through performance improvements achieved via optimized hydrothermal synthesis methods. This study addresses the selection of synthesis parameters—a topic long overlooked in hydrothermal methodologies—by systematically exploring the impact of various synthesis factors on the structure and performance of MIL-100(Fe). Single-factor experiments revealed that increasing the molar ratio of Fe3+ to BTC from 0.67 to 0.8 resulted in increases of over 60% and 170% in the specific surface area SBET and pore volume (Vp) of MIL-100(Fe), respectively. While maintaining other conditions constant, the effects of the Fe/HF ratio, Fe/HNO3 ratio, hydrothermal temperature, and activation temperature on the nanoparticle size, median diameter (D50), SBET, pore volume, and average pore diameter of MIL-100(Fe) were examined. The results indicate that MIL-100(Fe) exhibits optimal performance with a composition ratio of Fe:BTC:HF: HNO3 = 1:0.8:3:0.6, a hydrothermal reaction temperature of 175 °C, and an activation temperature of 160 °C.