Tandem catalysis by ultrathin metal–organic nanosheets formed through post-synthetic functionalisation of a layered framework

Covalent post-synthetic functionalisation of layered metal–organic frameworks is demonstrated as a new approach to forming ultrathin nanosheets for use in catalysis. An aminoterephthalate framework was partially functionalised with sulfonate chains and exfoliated to form predominantly monolayer nanosheets able to catalyse a two-step acid–base reaction in one pot.