MORE | Spring 2024

Covalent Organic Framework-Based Aerogel Composites for Passive Atmospheric Water Harvesting

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are crystalline, nanoporous polymers with ultra-high surface areas (>1600 m2/g) capable of absorbing small molecules from the environment. Monolithic gels produced with existing methods suffer from poor mechanical properties and complex rejuvenation methods following saturation. Herein, nanofillers have been added to a COF aerogel to improve the properties of the material. Poly(acrylic acid) has been used to improve the material’s mechanical properties, and photothermal gold nanoparticles have been added to allow for the mediation of absorbent release through temperature changes. Overall, this work improves the functionality of COFs through the development of aerogel composites.