Grafting functional groups in metal–organic frameworks for U(vi) sorption from aqueous solutions

Nuclear power is becoming one of the major clean energies for its high efficiency and low load on the environment. Uranium is a key strategic resource for nuclear power. Uranium reclamation from aqueous systems is of great significance, not only in the usage of nuclear power but also for the remediation of nuclear leakage pollution. Recently, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with high porosity, regular pore structure and modifiable functional groups, have been considered as one of the most effective uranium adsorption materials. Specifically, the post-grafted functional groups possess strong affinity to uranium. This frontier summarizes the recent progresses on grafting functional groups in MOFs for U(vi) sorption from aqueous solutions. The adsorption performance, interaction mechanisms and the grafted functional groups are assessed in this study. Finally, personal perspectives on challenges and opportunities are discussed with the hope of supporting and providing some assistance to the designation of MOF-based U(vi) sorption materials.