Ionic encapsulation of a methanol carbonylation catalyst in a microporous metal–organic framework

The anionic rhodium complex cis-[Rh(CO)2I2]−, active in the Monsanto process for acetic acid production, has been heterogenised via Coulombic interactions in the pores of a UiO-66-type metal–organic framework (MOF). The MOF-supported catalyst is active for the carbonylation of methanol and is recyclable, retaining its framework crystallinity following catalysis. Intermediates in the catalytic cycle observed by IR spectroscopy confirm the same mechanism as the established homogeneous process.