A multi-aromatic hydrocarbon unit induced hydrophobic metal–organic framework for efficient C2/C1 hydrocarbon and oil/water separation

A highly hydrophobic Cu(ii) MOF (UPC-21) was synthesized through a newly developed “diauxic growth” strategy. The multi-aromatic hydrocarbon units in the framework are responsible for hydrophobic character of UPC-21. Its application on water purification and oil/water separation was studied for the first time.