Recent Progress in Synthesis and Applications of Monolithic Metal-Organic Frameworks

Abstract

Monolithic MOFs have so far exhibited significant advantages in various industrial applications such as catalysis, sensing, separation and gas storage. Compared to their powder counterparts, they have been exceptional in terms of mechanical strength, stability, and improved handling. This addresses the critical challenges with powder MOFs in real-world industrial applications. Despite the notable developments in the synthesis of monolith MOFs, challenges related to their functional optimization and large scale production are still being encountered. This review presents the synthetic methodologies that have been used to prepare monolithic MOFs. Characterisation techniques are also presented with the hardness test being used to distinguish between a monolith and a powdered MOF. Thanks to their tunable structures, flexibility, and unique physicochemical properties, monolithic MOFs are increasingly being adopted in diverse industrial sectors, including catalysis, environmental remediation, energy storage, and sensing. Their ongoing development is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable and high-performance technologies.