Post-synthesis modification of metal–organic frameworks: synthesis, characteristics, and applications

Abstract

Post-synthesis modification (PSM) is an efficient means to introduce functional chemical groups into metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) by modifying metal clusters or ligands after MOFs have been synthesized. Various functional chemical groups are capable of being incorporated into the frameworks by PSM without changing the original MOF structures. Herein, firstly, the synthesis mechanisms of post-synthesis modified MOFs are introduced. Secondly, their characteristics such as crystallinity, porosity, morphology, stability, and fluorescent properties are discussed. Thirdly, applications of the modified MOFs are summarized focusing on catalysts, sensors, absorbents, energy storage, and separation. Lastly, potential challenges and new visions for developing PSMs are proposed based on recent literature and our knowledge. We hope that this review can serve as a very small stepping stone in the field of MOF PSM.