Functionalization of Metal–Organic Frameworks To Achieve Controllable Wettability

degrades in minutes upon contact with water, whereas modification as low as 14% results in powders that show significantly enhanced hydrophobic character with contact angles up to 147°. The modified material is capable of withstanding direct contact with water for 30 min with no visual evidence of altered surface characteristics. A linear relationship was observed between the length of the tethered chain and the water contact angle. These results reveal a predictable method for achieving a range of desirable sorption rates and highly controllable hydrophobic character. This work thereby expands the possibilities of rationally modifying MOFs for a plethora of target-specific applications.