Recent advances in sensing applications of metal nanoparticle/metal–organic framework composites

Metal nanoparticle/metal–organic framework (MNP/MOF) composites are newly emerging functional hybrid nanomaterials. The MNP/MOF composites formed by encapsulating or loading functional MNPs in or onto MOFs show intriguing synergistic effects when applied in various sensing applications. Owing to the synergy between the properties of MNPs and MOFs, MNP/MOF composite-based sensors exhibit significantly enhanced sensing performance in terms of sensitivity, stability, and selectivity. To date, a large number of MNP/MOF composite-based sensors have been reported and this interdisciplinary research field is rapidly expanding. In this review, we focus on the significant progress in the development of MNP/MOF composites for sensing applications. Various synthesis strategies for preparing MNP/MOF composites are introduced and the interactions between the MNPs and MOFs that contribute synergistically to improving sensing performance are comprehensively reviewed.