Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello!

In my project, I'm synthesizing y-cyclodextrin based Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs), and in the research papers I've read, ethanol (or methanol) is used as a solvent in the crystallization process. However, I'm not sure which grade/proof of ethanol should be used in this case. I'd greatly appreciate some clarification about this ASAP. Thank you!

Hello anniezhi01,

Sounds like you have an ambitious and interesting project!

Research papers that discuss synthesis or preparation of chemical compounds should have experimental sections that specify all materials and procedures used. You'll want to find one or two papers with a detailed description of the synthesis that you want to conduct. The description will specify the exact solvent you need for producing the cyclodextrin MOF crystals. If ethanol is required, it would probably be 100% or 95%.

I hope this helps and good luck with your project. Please post again if you have more questions.

A. Norman