Themed collection 2021 Inorganic Chemistry Frontiers Review-type Articles
![](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/Ajax-GA-Loader.gif)
Photoactive iron complexes: more sustainable, but still a challenge
With the “Criticality Score” used as a benchmark for sustainability – potentials, strategies and challenges are discussed to replace noble metal compounds in photosensitizers by the sustainable alternative iron.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 206-220
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01112J
Thermal stability of nitride phosphors for light-emitting diodes
Improving thermal stability of nitride phosphors has become an important material challenge. Our review describes three thermal phenomena, lists strategies for enhancing thermal stability of nitride phosphors, and discusses prospects in the future.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4933-4954
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00993A
Anionic redox behaviors of layered Li-rich oxide cathodes
Lithium-rich and manganese-based cathodes deliver extraordinary specific capacity with a unique anion redox, and the structural changes during the reaction from the anion keep it reversible and are accompanied by irreversible oxygen loss.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4590-4609
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00896J
Photofunctional transition metal complexes as cellular probes, bioimaging reagents and phototherapeutics
This critical review summarises the recent biological applications of transition metal complexes as cellular probes, bioimaging reagents and phototherapeutics.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4553-4579
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00931A
A review on the electrochemical reaction of Li-rich layered oxide materials
Lithium-rich layered oxide materials xLi2MnO3·(1 − x)LiMO2 (M = Mn, Co, Ni, Fe, Cr, etc.) as promising cathode candidates for high energy Li-ion batteries have been summarized in this review.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4300-4312
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00687H
Recent advances in rare earth co-doped luminescent tungsten oxygen complexes
This review talks about recent advances in RE co-doped tungsten oxygen complexes, including synthesis strategies associated with the luminescent mechanism, structural features and related applications.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4158-4176
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00681A
Porous framework-based hybrid materials for solar-to-chemical energy conversion: from powder photocatalysts to photoelectrodes
Porous framework materials such as metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) can be considered promising materials for solar-to-chemical energy conversion.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4107-4148
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00543J
Deuteration mechanistic studies of hydrogenase mimics
The role of deuterium in disentangling key steps of the mechanisms of H2 activation by mimics of hydrogenases is presented. These studies have allowed to a better understanding of the mode of action of the natural enzymes and their mimics.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 3934-3950
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00505G
The role of metal–organic porous frameworks in dual catalysis
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a valuable group of porous crystalline solids with inorganic and organic parts that can be used in dual catalysis.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 3618-3658
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00394A
Turn-on detection of assorted phosphates by luminescent chemosensors
This review illustrates a variety of luminescent chemosensors for the selective detection of assorted phosphates via the “Turn-On” emission mechanism with focus on their design aspects, chemical structures and sensing mechanism.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 3587-3607
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00032B
Single- and mixed-metal–organic framework photocatalysts for carbon dioxide reduction
This review focuses on the important roles of varied metal types over MOF-based photocatalysts. The basic principles, types of MOF photocatalysts and roles of the reaction system to achieve efficient MOFs for CO2 photoreduction are discussed.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 3178-3204
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00411E
Ln(II) alkyl complexes: from elusive exotics to catalytic applications
The synthesis, structures and reactivity of isolable LnII (Ln = Sm, Eu, Yb) alkyl complexes are discussed. The application of LnII alkyl derivatives in a variety of catalytic reactions is considered as well.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2965-2986
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00206F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Structural variation of self-assembled lanthanide supramolecular complexes induced by reaction conditions
The structural variation of self-assembled lanthanide supramolecular complexes which can be induced by different factors such as concentration, anion and solvent, cationic radii, stoichiometric ratio and light.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2952-2964
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00115A
Hydrothermal magic for the synthesis of new bismuth oxides
A variety of bismuth oxides have been synthesized by hydrothermal reactions using NaBiO3·nH2O as a starting material.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2918-2938
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00337B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Recent advances in understanding oxygen evolution reaction mechanisms over iridium oxide
Recent spectroscopic and computational studies concerning the oxygen evolution reaction over iridium oxides are reviewed to provide the state-of-the-art understanding of its reaction mechanism.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2900-2917
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01465F
Interplay between oxygen defects and dopants: effect on structure and performance of HfO2-based ferroelectrics
A review on ferroelectric phase formation and reliability in HfO2-based thin films and semiconductor devices.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2650-2672
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00167A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Heterometallic coordination polymers as heterogeneous electrocatalysts
Heterometallic coordination polymers have been rapidly developed as heterogeneous electrocatalysts. This review highlights the synthesis strategies of these polymers and the relationships between structures and electrocatalytic performances.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2634-2649
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00112D
Porphyrin metalation catalyzed by DNAzymes and nanozymes
In this review, DNA and nanomaterial based catalysts for porphyrin metalation reactions are summarized, including the selection of DNAzymes, choice of nanomaterials, their catalytic mechanisms, and applications of the reactions.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2183-2199
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00105A
The oxidation and thermal stability of two-dimensional transition metal carbides and/or carbonitrides (MXenes) and the improvement based on their surface state
This work provides a comprehensive review focusing on the current research on the stability of MXenes and the methods to improve their stability.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 2164-2182
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00041A
Integrated experimental/computational approaches to characterize the systems formed by vanadium with proteins and enzymes
An integrated instrumental/computational approach to characterize metallodrug–protein adducts at the molecular level is reviewed. A series of applications are described, focusing on potential vanadium drugs with a generalization to other metals.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1951-1974
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01507E
Long-lived room temperature phosphorescence of organic–inorganic hybrid systems
This review highlights the important role of several organic–inorganic hybrid systems. The fundamental mechanism, design principles, and enhancement strategies to achieve high performance room temperature phosphorescence have been discussed.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1942-1950
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01508C
Polyoxometalate-based metal–organic frameworks for heterogeneous catalysis
POM-based MOFs simultaneously possessing the virtues of POMs and MOFs exhibit excellent heterogeneous catalytic properties.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1865-1899
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01407A
Mechanistic insights into the thermal decomposition of ammonia borane, a material studied for chemical hydrogen storage
We have now a better understanding of the mechanisms of thermal decomposition of ammonia borane, a widely studied hydrogen storage material.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1900-1930
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01366H
Switching metal complexes via intramolecular electron transfer: connections with solvatochromism
Solvent-induced color-changing phenomena exhibited by some metal complexes can illuminate key aspects of their switchable behavior.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1840-1864
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01490G
Metal oxide integrated metal organic frameworks (MO@MOF): rational design, fabrication strategy, characterization and emerging photocatalytic applications
This review focuses on the possible synthesis route, characterization techniques, and mechanistic pathways involved in the photocatalytic applications of MO@MOFs.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1619-1636
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01117G
Recent advances of oxyfluorides for nonlinear optical applications
Oxyfluorides exhibit rich crystal structures that provide a new perspective for designing new NLO materials.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1637-1654
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01156H
Rare earth elements based oxide ion conductors
Rare-earth-elements-based oxide ion conductors with various structures and their structure-property relationships were systematically presented and summarized, which can provide new insight and guidance for the development of new oxide ion conductors.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1374-1398
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI00848F
Effect of pyridyl donors from organic ligands versus metalloligands on material design
This review illustrates designs and structures of various coordination frameworks constructed using assorted organic ligands and metalloligands offering pyridyl donors to evaluate the impact of flexibility versus rigidity on material design.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 1334-1373
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI00768D
Porous frameworks for effective water adsorption: from 3D bulk to 2D nanosheets
The latest progress relating to the development of porous frameworks for water harvesting has been summarized, highlighting design strategies for next-generation sorbent materials.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 898-913
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01362E
Recent research on the luminous mechanism, synthetic strategies, and applications of CuInS2 quantum dots
We discuss the synthesis and luminescence mechanisms of CuInS2 QDs, the strategies to improve their luminous performance and their potential application in light-emitting devices, solar energy conversion, and the biomedical field.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 880-897
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01228A
Recent insight into functional crystalline porous frameworks for cancer photodynamic therapy
We summarize and illustrate the recent developments of MOF- and COF-based nanomedicines for PDT and its combined antitumor treatments. Furthermore, major challenges and future development prospects in this field are also discussed.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 848-879
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01051K
Recent progress in lanthanide metal–organic frameworks and their derivatives in catalytic applications
Research progress in lanthanide metal–organic frameworks and their derivatives in the field of catalysis has been presented on the basis of different organic reactions.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 590-619
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01191F
Recent advances of covalent organic frameworks in lithium ion batteries
This review divides the active sites of COFs into four categories: carbonyl, phenyl, imine bonds and other groups, and introduces their applications in LIBs.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 558-571
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01104E
Bi(III) MOFs: syntheses, structures and applications
The synthesis methods, structures and applications of Bi(III)-based MOFs in catalysis, adsorption, fluorescence, etc. are reviewed.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 572-589
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01055C
Light-induced excited spin state trapping in iron(III) complexes
This review discusses the correlation of the local and whole molecular structure of iron(III) complexes with the magnetic properties including the light-induced excited spin-state trapping (LIESST) effect.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 484-498
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01188F
Recent advances in the development of palladium nanocatalysts for sustainable organic transformations
In this review, we highlighted Pd nanocatalysts which have been used in the development of sustainable organic transformations including transfer hydrogenation, C–H bond activation, and some carbon–carbon couplings in the last five years.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 499-545
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01283A
Diverse physical functionalities of rare-earth hexacyanidometallate frameworks and their molecular analogues
The combination of rare-earth metal complexes and hexacyanidometallates of transition metals is a fruitful pathway for achieving functional materials exhibiting a wide scope of mechanical, magnetic, optical, and electrochemical properties.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 452-483
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01197E
Investigation on nanostructured Cu-based electrocatalysts for improvising water splitting: a review
In this review, various forms of Cu based nanostructures have been explored in terms of improvise and enhancing their activity and durability with vast investigation for OER, HER and TWS applications.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 234-272
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01060J
Luminescence response mode and chemical sensing mechanism for lanthanide-functionalized metal–organic framework hybrids
This comprehensive review systematically summarizes the luminescence response mode and chemical sensing mechanism for lanthanide-functionalized MOF hybrids (abbreviated as LnFMOFH).
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 201-233
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI01153C
Preparation of single-crystal metal substrates for the growth of high-quality two-dimensional materials
Recent advances on preparing single-crystal metals and their crucial roles in controlled growth of high-quality 2D materials are reviewed.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 182-200
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QI00923G
Two molybdenyl carbonates with different dimensional structures exhibiting huge differences in band gaps
Two molybdenyl carbonates with different dimensional structures exhibit huge differences in band gaps, 0D Cs3MoO4(HCO3) exhibiting a much larger band gap than 1D Cs2MoO3(CO3).
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 440-447
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01366A
Highly selective ethenolysis with acyclic-aminooxycarbene ruthenium catalysts
Acyclic carbene–ruthenium catalysts were developed for the ethenolysis. Remarkable catalytic efficiency (turnover numbers of 100 000) and excellent α-olefin selectivity (up to 98%) were exhibited.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 323-331
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01132D
Distinct nonlinear optical responses in three pairs of 2D homochiral Ag(I) enantiomers modulated by dicarboxylic acid ligands
Based on three pairs of 2D homochiral Ag(I) enantiomers, we demonstrate that both the symmetry and degree of π-conjugation of the ligands have a significant effect on the type and intensity of their NLO responses.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 284-293
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01321A
Synthesis of NaBH4 as a hydrogen carrier from hydrated borax using a Mg–Al alloy
We report a highly efficient synthesis of NaBH4 by optimizing the uses of a hydrogen source and low-cost Mg–Al alloy.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 370-378
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01247A
Controlling the band structure and photocatalytic performance of single atom Ag/C3N4 catalysts by variation of silver concentration
We have investigated the effect of the concentration of single Ag atoms on the electronic structure of C3N4, and the relationship between the energy band structure and photocatalytic performance has been analysed in depth as well.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 302-309
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01138C
The modification effect of Fe2O3 nanoparticles on ZnO nanorods improves the adsorption and detection capabilities of TEA
The depletion layer and more active sites are the key factors for improving the gas sensitivity of an Fe2O3/ZnO sensor.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 259-266
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01339D
Phosphomolybdic acid encapsulated in ZIF-8-based porous ionic liquids for reactive extraction desulfurization of fuels
Phosphomolybdic acid was encapsulated within a ZIF-8-based porous ionic liquid (HPMo@ZIF-8-PIL) for ultradeep reactive extraction desulfurization.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 165-178
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01255J
Construction of brown mesoporous carbon nitride with a wide spectral response for high performance photocatalytic H2 evolution
A novel brown mesoporous carbon nitride photocatalyst is synthesized by a doping strategy. The excellent visible light response and stable mesoporous structure lead to an efficient hydrogen evolution activity.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 103-110
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01137E
Photoactive perylenediimide metal–organic framework for boosting iodoperfluoroalkylation of alkenes and oxidative coupling of amines
A novel photoactive MOF was prepared based on an electron-deficient perylenediimide derivative, which exhibits excellent photocatalytic activities towards the iodoperfluoroalkylation of alkenes and the oxidation of amines to imines.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2022,9, 111-118
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01206A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Gating the photoactivity of azobenzene-type ligands trapped within a dynamic system of an M4L6 tetrahedral cage, an M2L2 metallocycle and mononuclear MLn complexes
Complexation of metal ions by a ligand bearing a azobenzene linker yielded two types of complexes: an [M2L2]4+ metallocycle and an [M4L6]8+ tetrahedral cage, which can be further converted into libraries of mononuclear [M(L′/L′′)n]2+ species.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 5195-5200
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01063H
Broadband near-infrared BaMSi3O9:Cr3+ (M = Zr, Sn, Hf) phosphors for light-emitting diode applications
Cr3+-Doped BaMSi3O9 (M = Zr, Sn, Hf) NIR-emitting phosphors have been developed, which exhibit a broad NIR emission band over 650–1200 nm with a tunable band maximum longer than 800 nm and a FWHM of more than 155 nm upon blue light excitation.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 5186-5194
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01082D
Deeply reduced empty Keggin clusters [MoIVxMVI12−xO40−xpyx] (x = 3, 6; M = Mo, W; py = pyridine): synthesis, structures, and Lewis field catalysis
First MoIV3-Keggin anions [MoIVxMVI12−xO40−xpyx]8− (M = Mo, W; x = 3, 6) display unprecedented empty Keggin structure caused by the weak u3-O coordinating capability of the [MoIV3O4] triads and LCF-dependent hydrogen transfer catalysis.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 5178-5185
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01080H
Construction of a superhydrophobic microenvironment via polystyrene coating: an unexpected way to stabilize CuI against oxidation
A superhydrophobic microenvironment in MIL-101(Cr) was constructed via coating polystyrene, resulting in improved CuI stability and adsorptive desulfurization performance.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 5169-5177
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01050F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Aufbau vs. non-Aufbau ground states in two-coordinate d7 single-molecule magnets
Magnetic anisotropy is generated in two related d7 single-molecule magnets; (1) via 3d-4s orbital mixing in FeI; and (2) a non-Aufbau ground state in CoII, demonstrating that the electronic configurations are large retained independent of geometry.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 5076-5085
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00912E
A binary all-nanoporous composite membrane constructed via vapor phase transformation for high-permeance gas separation
A COF with a large pore size was incorporated into a MOF matrix to construct an all-nanoporous composite membrane for high-permeance gas separation.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 5016-5023
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00847A
Unprecedented icosahedral clusters built of polyantimony: from single [Ni0.5@{Sb6Ni6(CO)8}]4− and [Ni@{Sb7Ni5(CO)6}]3− to the Sb84−-linked dimer [(Sb8){Sb7Ni5(CO)4}2]6−
First icosahedral clusters built of polyantimony were prepared from the reactions of K2ZnSb and Ni(CO)2(PPh3)2. Sb84−-linked dimer provides a new way of thinking for the synthesis of hybrid clusters datively coordinated by polydentate Zintl anions.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 5086-5092
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00872B
Probing the generality of spin crossover complex T½vs. ligand 15N NMR chemical shift correlations: towards predictable tuning
A study of 6 families (42 members) demonstrates that within a family the easily calculated 15N-NMR values of ligands enable predictable tuning of T1/2 in the corresponding complexes, except for 2 families with weakly influencing meta-substituents.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4846-4857
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI00919B
Dielectric switching, SHG response and Pd(II) adsorption of a multifunctional phase-transition complex
One-dimensional coordination polymer [(C2H4OH)C4H9NS]CdCl3 has the performance of dielectric switching and SHG response. And the compound can adsorb precious Pd(II) and the adsorption could be monitored by dielectric anomaly and SHG signal.
Inorg. Chem. Front., 2021,8, 4858-4863
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QI01017D
About this collection
Critical reviews, highlights and chemistry frontiers articles published in Inorganic Chemistry Frontiers during 2021 are collated as below for the benefit of readers.