Themed collection MOFs for energy and environmental applications

The theme, “MOFs for energy and the environment”, reflects the ongoing evolution of MOFs from simply network chemistry to the chemistry of synergistic integration with heterogeneous materials involving other disciplines (the fourth generation type).

Using a combined experimental, theoretical and density functional theory analysis, important insights into the effects of structural modifications on the degree of electronic coupling and rate of electron transfer are obtained for the framework [Zn(BPPFTzTz)(tdc)]·2DMF.

MOF-711 is constructed from zirconium oxide SBUs and benzenedicarboxylate linkers. Rotational distortion differentiates the Zr ions into three types. We show the complexity of these crystals, which are best described from the ‘eye’ of the molecule.

Hollow metal–organic frameworks are produced by epitaxial growth of protective layers on the crystal surface and selective etching of the interior.

This review of soft coordination networks that undergo guest-induced switching between nonporous and porous structures addresses switching mechanisms and their potential utility.

Synthesis dependent in-plane rotational epitaxy in a core–shell metal–organic framework determined by atomic force microscopy.

Two libraries of novel star-shaped linkers were synthesized using an optimized direct arylation reaction for cheap, fast and easy synthesis.

We investigate the effects of improving the completeness of structural analysis of MOFs using three-dimensional electron diffraction.

High-throughput computational screening methodology designed to identify the most promising porous metal–organic frameworks for biogas upgrading.

Synergy between particle size, electron source, and organic base improves the solar carbon dioxide reduction of a metal–organic framework entrapped molecular photosystem.

A series of robust Zr(IV)-MOFs built from enantiopure, privileged SPINOL linkers were constructed and employed in asymmetric catalysis and enantioselective separation.

We demonstrate the one-step mechanochemical production of MOF shaped bodies at large scale with bespoke geometry, strength and stability.

The heterojunction between a metal–organic framework and graphitic carbon nitride can form a novel porous structure which reduces the rate of electron–hole recombination, thus improving the photocatalytic performance of the composite for wastewater treatment.

The industrial production of MIL-160(Al), a prototypical metal–organic framework, was analysed by production cost estimation. The scalable synthesis conditions were confirmed in a pilot scale production.

Photochromic units integrated within metal- and covalent-organic framework matrices act as a switch to control resonance energy transfer processes.

Improved antibiotic elimination from water under realistic conditions through pore functionalization and nanosizing of the UiO-66 metal–organic framework.

Multiple linear regression as a part of machine learning is employed to develop equations to predict the methane uptake and working capacity of MOFs. Only three geometrical descriptors are used in the equations: surface area, pore volume and density.

The physical properties of the 2D MOF Ni₃(HITP)₂ synthesized in batches under different conditions are analysed to understand which variables govern the capacitive behaviour of supercapacitor electrodes prepared using the neat MOF material.

Nanoporous materials are promising for energy-efficient separation of xenon from krypton by physisorption. We study the thermodynamics behind Xe/Kr separation at low and high pressure for 12 020 materials.

The use of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in industry has been limited due to a lack of shaping technologies. Monolithic MOFs (monoMOFs) offer a viable alternative to traditional shaping offering high density materials for adsorption processes.

We investigated the performance of Cu nanoclusters in Zr-MOF pores towards direct CO₂ reduction as a function of linker. We found no evidence of electronic promotion but we showed that higher inorganic node acidity favours longer-chain products.

PTSA is successfully inserted in UiO-66(Zr) without destroying its original structure (UiO-G), the maximum conversion of 91.3% is achieved and UiO-G could remarkably reduce the activation energy of esterification to 28.61 kJ mol^–1.