In this work, we synthesized Zr-fumarate MOFs by applying water as solvent and formic acid as modulator. Highly crystalline Zr-fumarate MOF obtained from 120 degrees C, 24 h synthesis conditions showed high thermal and hydro stabilities. Compared to the early reported MOF materials, the lower cost, more environmentally friendly synthesis process and comparable hydrogen uptake capacity make Zr-fumarate MOFs a good candidate for hydrogen storage applications. Copyright (C) 2015, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.