Metal-organic frameworks: Recent advances in synthesis strategies and applications

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are cage-like structures composed of metal ions surrounded by organic linkers. Arms of linkers contain metal ions giving the characteristic cage-like structure in MOFs. Many synthesis methods are developed for MOFs such as chemical, hydrothermal, mechanochemical, microwave-assisted, and several others. The main characteristics of these materials include high porosity, uniform pore structure, flexible geometry, and high surface area. Due to their unique properties, MOFs find a wide range of applications such as in catalysis, gas sensing, drug delivery, carbon dioxide capture, H2 production, environmental remediation, energy storage, etc. Unique structural characteristics of MOFs can be achieved by tuning the basic materials according to their specified applications. Furthermore, many well-designed MOF-based composites obtained by the combination of MOFs with functional materials, like nanoparticles, quantum dots, natural enzymes, and polymers possess noticeably improved capabilities in various applications. In this review, the structural aspects, physicochemical properties, methods of synthesis, applications, and future scope have been discussed.