MOF-Based Composites for Sustainable Processes

The development of energy-efficient solutions for indoor air control systems is a key challenge in sustainable processes. Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) offer great potential for this purpose; however, their practical implementation in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) is often hindered by difficulties in material handling and effective confinement within operating devices, mainly due to their powdered form.

This study addresses these limitations by developing MOF-based composites: hybrid materials obtained by embedding Al-fumarate MOF particles into a poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) matrix. The obtained samples successfully combine the water adsorption properties of the dispersed crystalline phase with the mechanical robustness and flexibility of the polymer. Two easily scalable fabrication strategies were used: Mixed-Matrix Membranes (MMMs) via solvent casting and non-woven fabrics via electrospinning.

The MMMs retain approximately 90% of the pristine MOF surface area and water vapor adsorption capacity, with minimal loss of active sites. The membranes exhibit remarkable water vapor adsorption characteristics, including fast kinetics and negligible hysteresis, which are key parameters for efficient dehumidification and passive cooling cycles, contributing to reduced energy consumption. Notably, these hybrid systems outperform traditional desiccants in both adsorption capacity and reversibility, highlighting their potential for sustainable HVAC applications. The non-woven architecture is particularly promising for maximizing MOF particle accessibility, thanks to its typical texture.

Developed composites also offer solutions in different fields, such as anti-fogging systems in packaging and humidity sensing. Work is currently underway to assess the performance of developed composite systems in prototypical devices.