Evaluation of copper–1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylate metal–organic framework (Cu‐MOF) as a selective sorbent for Lewis‐base analytes

The metal–organic framework copper–1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylate (Cu‐BTC) was evaluated for its ability to selectively interact with Lewis‐base analytes by examining retention on gas‐chromatographic columns packed with Chromosorb W HP that contained 3.0% SE‐30 along with various loadings of Cu‐BTC. Scanning electron microscopy images of the support material showed the characteristic Cu‐BTC crystals embedded in the SE‐30 coating on the diatomaceous support. The results indicated that the Cu‐BTC‐containing stationary phase had limited thermal stability (220°C) and strong general retention for analytes. Kováts index calculations showed selective retention (amounting to about 300 Kováts units) relative to n‐alkanes for many small Lewis‐base analytes on a column that contained 0.75% Cu‐BTC compared with an SE‐30 control. Short columns that contained lower loadings of Cu‐BTC (0.10%) allowed elution of nitroaromatics; however, selectivity was not observed for aromatic compounds (including nitroaromatics) or nitroalkanes. Observed retention characteristics are discussed.