Probing time dependent phase transformation in a flexible metal-organic framework with nanoindentation

Phase transformation in a flexible metal-organic framework, {[Zn-4(1,4-NDC)(4)(1,2-BPE)(2)]center dot xSolvent}(n), which loses guest molecules rapidly at room temperature, leading to several phase transitions, is examined using the nanoindentation technique. Nanoindentation results revealed that the time dependent transformation of an open to a closed phase happens gradually, through multiple intermediate phases, with the mechanical properties (elastic modulus and hardness) increasing as the transformation progresses from an open to a closed phase.