Controlled Solvothermal Synthesis and Post-Synthetic Activation of Zinc-Based Metal-Organic Framework Zif-8

ZIF-8 (Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8) was synthesized via a solvothermal route using Zn(NO3)2·6H2O and 2-methylimidazole (2-MIM) in methanol at a Zn2+:2-MIM molar ratio of 1:8. The precursor solutions were combined and crystallized in a Teflon-lined autoclave at 105 °C for 24 h, followed by methanol washing and thermal activation at 150 °C for 8 h. The product was obtained as a white powder in 80.7% yield (5.13 g). Subsequent structural characterization by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and BET analysis is planned.