Prof. Zhijie Chen’s group from the Department of Chemistry at Zhejiang University has conducted a comprehensive review on the advancements in the field of Zr-MOFs (zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks). The research article titled “Design, synthesis and applications of functional zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks” has been published in the esteemed journal Science China Chemistry.
Zr-MOFs have emerged as a promising class of materials with diverse applications due to their unique properties and structural versatility. This review delves into the recent progress made in the design, synthesis, and practical applications of these functional frameworks.
The researchers emphasize the significance of Zr-MOFs in various fields such as catalysis, gas storage and separation, sensing, drug delivery, and energy conversion. These materials exhibit exceptional stability, large surface area, and tunable pore size, making them ideal for accommodating guest molecules or ions.
In terms of design and synthesis, the review highlights the strategies employed to achieve specific functionalities and desired properties in Zr-MOFs. The use of ligand modification, post-synthetic modification, and construction of mixed-metal frameworks are discussed as effective techniques to tailor the properties of these materials. Additionally, the researchers shed light on the importance of understanding the structure-property relationship, which enables the rational design and synthesis of Zr-MOFs with enhanced performance.
Moreover, the review also emphasizes the remarkable progress made in the applications of Zr-MOFs. For instance, in the field of catalysis, these frameworks play a crucial role as heterogeneous catalysts, exhibiting high activity, selectivity, and recyclability. In gas storage and separation, Zr-MOFs demonstrate excellent capabilities for storing and separating gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. They also show potential in sensing applications, enabling the detection of various analytes with high sensitivity and selectivity.
Furthermore, the researchers discuss the application of Zr-MOFs in drug delivery systems. These frameworks can encapsulate drugs, protecting them from degradation and enabling controlled release. This property has immense potential in improving the efficacy and safety of therapeutic treatments. Additionally, Zr-MOFs have shown promise in energy conversion applications, including solar cells and photocatalysis, due to their ability to absorb light and facilitate charge transfer processes.
In conclusion, Prof. Zhijie Chen’s group provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in the development of Zr-MOFs. The review highlights the significant progress made in the design, synthesis, and applications of these functional materials. The unique properties and structural versatility of Zr-MOFs make them highly attractive for various fields, such as catalysis, gas storage and separation, sensing, drug delivery, and energy conversion. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge in the field of metal-organic frameworks and opens up new avenues for further exploration and innovation.
