The art of controlled nanoscale lattices: A review on the self-assembly of colloidal metal–organic framework particles and their multifaceted architectures

Nanoscale lattices formed through the art of controlled self-assembly hold a promise for the creation of advanced materials with diverse applications. These versatile particles, boasting exceptional attributes such as colloidal stability, tunable sizes, and an array of sophisticated shapes, allow access to a vast multifunctionality. In this context, the controlled self-assembly of colloidal metal-organic framework (MOF) particles is a promising field that encourage scientists to continue exploring across the limits of what is possible. A thorough investigation of this new field of study reveals the possibility of influencing a future in which innovation and creativity converge to produce a wide range of applications. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the self-assembly of colloidal MOF (CMOF) particles into ordered superstructures, with a focus on the underlying principles governing the self-assembly of CMOF, design and synthetic strategies, as well as their self-assembly mechanisms. In addition, the stability of CMOF particles is highlighted, emphasizing efforts and strategies to ensure their reliability. Finally, we offer some insights and perspectives for the future development and the potential application of CMOF, reflecting the great potential and rapid development of this interdisciplinary research field. We aim to provide new insights into MOF particle self-assembly and further guide future research for large-scale applications.