Robust Cd(4,5-Imdb)-MOF for Lewis-Acid Assisted Catalysis and Selective Sensing of 2,4,6-Trinitrophenol

Developing multifunctional metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for effective catalysis and sensing remain a significant challenge. This study presents the synthesis of an imidazole-based angular linker, 4,4′-(1-methyl-1H-imidazole-4,5-diyl)dibenzoic acid (4,5-H₂Imdb), which is used in the synthesis of the Cd(4,5-Imdb)-MOF. This MOF demonstrates robust and recyclable properties, making it suitable for solvent-free Strecker synthesis and in the detection of the secondary explosive 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) molecule, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 7.5 ppb in methanol. The material's hydrolytic stability and reusability are thoroughly evaluated. Additionally, density functional theory (DFT) calculations provide insights into the selective detection mechanism of TNP. These findings highlight the potential of Cd(4,5-Imdb)-MOF in catalysis and sensing applications.