Research progress and prospects of metal–organic framework materials in corrosion protection

Abstract

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), with their tunable structures, large surface areas, and abundant functional groups, show great potential in corrosion protection. This review summarizes recent advances in MOF-based anticorrosion materials, covering synthesis methods, applications, challenges, and future directions. Preparation techniques such as microwave, room-temperature, hydrothermal/solvothermal, electrochemical, sonochemical, and mechanochemical syntheses are discussed, with analysis of their respective advantages and limitations. In applications, MOFs serve as nanofillers, corrosion inhibitors, nanocapsule-based self-healing agents, and superhydrophobic coatings. By enhancing barrier properties, mechanical strength, and enabling responsive inhibitor release, MOFs greatly improve corrosion resistance and self-healing capability. In addition to these advances, an analysis of cost and scalability is provided to assess the economic feasibility and industrial translation potential of MOF-based anticorrosion systems. Despite this progress, challenges remain in terms of production cost, scalability, and long-term stability. Future research should focus on clarifying MOF nucleation and structural regulation mechanisms, leveraging machine learning for material design, and developing cost-effective, eco-friendly, and scalable synthesis methods to advance the industrialization of high-performance MOF-based anticorrosion coatings.