5. Shaping techniques

The shaping of MOFs is an essential prerequisite for their use in applications. After synthesis and activation, MOFs take the form of a microcrystalline powder that is difficult to use as such. Indeed, the absence of adequate shaping inevitably leads to handling problems, and possibly toxicity (if MOFs are in nanoparticle form), but also to loss of charge, filling rate or recovery after use.

The choice of shaping method depends on the intended application. It should be noted that the more fragile nature of MOFs, particularly in mechanical terms, compared with zeolites or activated carbons, implies the use of suitable shaping processes so as not to impact the quality and therefore the performance of these solids.