RESUMEN
The realization of metal-organic framework (MOF) layers onto solid surfaces is a prerequisite for their integration into devices. This work reports the direct growth of Fe3+ /benzene di-carboxylate MOFs onto functionalized silicon surfaces, compatible with a wide range of MOF synthesis conditions. The co-nucleation and growth of different crystalline phases are evidenced, whose coverage depends on the surface chemistry and/or the solution composition. Three structural phases - the cubic MIL-101(Fe), a hexagonal phase with a structure close to MOF-235 and a MIL-53(Fe) with a monoclinic symmetry - are identified through characteristic crystal shapes and their structural parameters inferred from X-Ray Diffraction. In addition to the oriented growth of 3D crystallites, the formation of two-dimensional MIL-101 nano-crystallites or thin layers/islands exhibiting extended monocrystalline domains with (111) texture is also demonstrated through high-resolution atomic force microscopy. Post-synthesis treatments reveal a weak adhesion of the hexagonal phase, indicating a different surface anchoring.
RESUMEN
The potential application of high capacity Sn-based electrode materials for energy storage, particularly in rechargeable batteries, has led to extensive research activities. In this scope, the development of an innovative synthesis route allowing to downsize particles to the nanoscale is of particular interest owing to the ability of such nanomaterial to better accommodate volume changes upon electrochemical reactions. Here, we report on the use of room temperature ionic liquid (i.e., [EMIm+][TFSI-]) as solvent, template, and stabilizer for Sn-based nanoparticles. In such a media, we observed, using Cryo-TEM, that pure Sn nanoparticles can be stabilized. Further washing steps are, however, mandatory to remove residual ionic liquid. It is shown that the washing steps are accompanied by the partial oxidation of the surface, leading to a core-shell structured Sn/SnOx composite. To understand the structural features of such a complex architecture, HRTEM, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and the pair distribution function were employed to reveal a crystallized ß-Sn core and a SnO and SnO2 amorphous shell. The proportion of oxidized phases increases with the final washing step with water, which appeared necessary to remove not only salts but also the final surface impurities made of the cationic moieties of the ionic liquid. This work highlights the strong oxidation reactivity of Sn-based nanoparticles, which needs to be taken into account when evaluating their electrochemical properties.
