An Undergraduate Laboratory Experiment for the Fabrication of ZIF-8 SURMOF Thin Films via Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly

Abstract Surface-mounted metal-organic framework (SURMOF) thin-films are receiving growing interest due to their unique structural characteristics and potential applications in advanced nanotechnology. A laboratory teaching experiment based on layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly method was developed for the fabrication of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 (ZIF-8) SURMOF thin-films. The experiment integrates concepts from coordination chemistry, crystallography, materials science, and modern characterization techniques, providing students with an interdisciplinary learning experience. Through the automated LBL deposition process, students gain hands-on experience in the coordination-driven growth of SURMOF thin-films and learn the fundamental principles of SURMOF fabrication. Compared with conventional MOF synthesis experiments, this course provides a more intuitive understanding of interfacial coordination assembly and modern thin-film fabrication techniques. In addition, the teaching design emphasizes student-centered learning, scientific discussion, and literature-based problem analysis to enhance students’ critical thinking and research abilities. Assessment results demonstrated that the experiment effectively improved students’ understanding of MOF materials, characterization techniques, and thin-film growth mechanisms while simultaneously strengthening their interdisciplinary scientific reasoning and experimental skills.