Mechanically Robust Mesoporous UiO-66-NH2/Nanofibrous Aerogel for Organophosphonates Detoxification

There is a critical need for novel composite materials for high-performance chemical filtration and detoxification of organophosphonates (OPs) and other harmful compounds found in nerve agents, pesticides, and industrial processes. In this work, rapid hydrolysis of OPs using high-surface-area zirconium-based MOF-aerogel composites is demonstrated. Using a unique surfactant-templated solvothermal synthesis method, mesoporous UiO-66-NH₂ grown on the fibers within a polyacrylonitrile (PAN)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanofibrous sponge can produce a 3D MOF–polymer matrix with a specific surface area of up to 900 m² g⁻¹_comp—almost 2X larger than the highest previously reported values while maintaining robust mechanical integrity. The mesoporous MOF promotes efficient diffusion, and the aerogel matrix provides a high-surface-area platform for spill containment. Unlike activated carbon, which adsorb OPs without degradation, the UiO-66-NH₂-sponges hydrolyze OPs upon water contact, significantly reducing their toxicity. The MOF-aerogel sponges withstand stresses up to 40 kPa under 70% strain are shown while maintaining exceptional catalytic efficiency, achieving a methyl paraoxon degradation half-life of 3 min, compared to 15 min for similar microporous MOFs. This innovation accentuates the potential of mesoporous Zr-MOF aerogels for advanced protection, filtration, and catalysis.