Synthesis and catalytic properties of a new window type hybrid porous zirconium phosphonate

An organic–inorganic hybrid zirconium phosphonate (noted as ZrNCP) with window type porous structure was synthesized by using β–alanine–N,N-dimethylidenephosphonic acid and zirconium dichloride oxide octahydrate. The sample possesses regular flake morphology, and these flakes have porous framework structure, which were characterized by SEM, HRTEM, N2 sorption, XRD, TGA–DSC, elemental analysis, XPS, and FT-IR spectroscopy techniques. The as-prepared ZrNCP can be used as catalyst to oxidation of formaldehyde after Fe3+ was intercalated and coordinated with nitrogen and carbonyl groups inside the porous walls of ZrNCP. 90.1% of oxidized efficiency was obtained when the catalyst was added into formaldehyde solution (40% water solution) at 80 °C. - Highlights: • A new organic–inorganic hybrid zirconium phosphonate with window type porous structure. • Coordination groups exist in the wall of the pores. • The material can be used as catalyst to oxidation of formaldehyde after Fe3+ intercalated. - Graphical abstract: A new inorganic–organic hybrid zirconium phosphonate (noted as ZrNCP) with window type porous structure was synthesized. The material possesses regular flake morphology, and these flakes have porous framework structure. Research results indicate that the product can be used as catalyst to formaldehyde's oxidation after Fe3+ intercalated and coordinated with nitrogen and carbonyl groups in the pores.