Self-Template-Directed Metal–Organic Frameworks Network and the Derived Honeycomb-Like Carbon Flakes via Confinement Pyrolysis

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have become a research hotspot since they have been explored as convenient precursors for preparing various multifunctional nanomaterials. However, the preparation of MOF networks with controllable flake morphology in large scale is not realized yet. Herein, a self-template strategy is developed to prepare MOF networks. In this work, layered double-metal hydroxide (LDH) and other layered metal hydroxides are used not only as a scaffold but also as a self-sacrificed metal source. After capturing the abundant metal cations identically from the LDH by the organic linkers, MOF networks are in situ formed. It is interesting that the MOF network-derived carbon materials retain the flake morphology and exhibit a unique honeycomb-like macroporous structure due to the confined shrinkage of the polyhedral facets. The overall properties of the carbon networks are adjustable according to the tailored metal compositions in LDH and the derived MOFs, which are desirable for target-oriented applications as exemplified by the electrochemical application in supercapacitors.