Ultrathin Two-Dimensional Covalent Organic Framework Nanosheets: Preparation and Application in Highly Sensitive and Selective DNA Detection

The ability to prepare ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) covalent organic framework (COF) nanosheets (NSs) in high yield is of great importance for the further exploration of their unique properties and potential applications. Herein, by elaborately designing and choosing two flexible molecules with C3v molecular symmetry as building units, a novel imine-linked COF, namely, TPA-COF, with a hexagonal layered structure and sheet-like morphology, is synthesized. Since the flexible building units are integrated into the COF skeletons, the interlayer stacking becomes weak, resulting in the easy exfoliation of TPA-COF into ultrathin 2D NSs. Impressively, for the first time, the detailed structural information, i.e.,…

• MO
  Ministry of Education - Singapore

  Awards: 2016-T1-002-051, MOE2016-T2-2-103, 2016-T1-001-147, MOE2014-T2-2-093, MOE2015-T2-2-057, ARC 19/15
• NT
  Nanyang Technological University

  Awards: M4081458.070.500000, M4081296.070.500000
• SM
  Singapore Millennium Foundation