Rapid synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) in aqueous solution via microwave irradiation

Herein we report a new strategy to synthesize zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) at a relatively low molar ratio of ligand to metal ion in aqueous solution under microwave irradiation for the first time. The products possess high surface area and large micropore volume. The molar ratio of ligand to metal ion and the salt anion play an important role on the size and shape of ZIF-8.