A review on the synthesis and applications of porous nanostructures of metal-organic frameworks

Metal ions or clusters associated with organic bonds to create one-dimensional nanostructures are called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Network synthesis forms MOFs with defined components, which can lead to the formation of crystals with high porosity, and high chemical and thermal stability. Due to their larger specific surface area, large pore size, and crystalline and tunable nature, several MOFs have been used as potential options in various fields such as gas storage and delivery, energy storage, catalysis, and chemical/biosensing. This article provides an overview of MOF classification, MOF synthesis methods, parameters affecting synthesis, and their applications. Various types of organometallic frameworks such as isolattice frameworks, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks, porous coordination networks, and Lavoisier materials are reviewed. Various methods of MOF synthesis include microwave, electrochemical, solvothermal, mechanical-chemical, and sonochemical synthesis and the parameters affecting the synthesis include the selection of organic ligands, metal salt, molar ratio of precursors, pH, solvent, and temperature. Research in the field of MOFs is expanding rapidly both in academia and industry.