Editorial

, Volume: 23( 3)

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Metal–organic frameworks provide highly porous structures for adsorption, storage, and catalytic applications

Katarina Björk* Department of Porous Materials and Coordination Chemistry, Nordic University of Chemical Technology, Finland. *Corresponding author: Katarina Björk, Department of Porous Materials and Coordination Chemistry, Nordic University of Chemical Technology, Finland. Email: katarina.bjork.mof@nordchemtech.edu Received: may04, 2025; Accepted: may18, 2025; Published: may27, 2025

Abstract

  

Abstract Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline materials composed of metal ions or clusters coordinated to organic ligands, forming highly porous three-dimensional structures. Their exceptionally large surface area, tunable pore size, and chemical functionality make them valuable for gas storage, adsorption, separation, and catalysis. This article discusses the structure, synthesis, properties, and applications of MOFs in modern chemical and materials science. Surface area, Separation science, Functional materials Keywords: Metal–organic frameworks, Porous materials, Coordination chemistry, Gas storage, Adsorption, Catalysis, Crystal structure, Introduction Metal–organic frameworks are a class of coordination compounds where metal ions or clusters act as nodes connected by organic linkers to create extended porous networks [1]. This unique combination of inorganic and organic components results in crystalline structures with extraordinarily high surface areas and well-defined pore systems. The modular nature of MOFs allows chemists to design frameworks with specific pore sizes and chemical environments. The synthesis of MOFs typically involves solvothermal reactions where metal salts and organic ligands self-assemble into ordered frameworks. By choosing different metals and ligands, researchers can tailor structural properties and functionality [2]. The resulting materials often exhibit porosity far exceeding that of traditional adsorbents like activated carbon. The porous structure of MOFs makes them highly effective for gas adsorption and storage, particularly for gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. The interaction between gas molecules and internal surfaces determines storage capacity and selectivity [3]. This property is valuable for clean energy storage and environmental applications. MOFs also serve as efficient catalysts due to the presence of accessible active sites within their pores. Functional groups on organic linkers and metal centers facilitate chemical Citation: Katarina Björk. Metal–organic frameworks provide highly porous structures for adsorption, storage, and catalytic applications. Int J Chem Sci. 23(3):458. © 2025 Trade Science Inc. 1 www.tsijournals.com | may -2025 reactions, making MOFs useful in heterogeneous catalysis. Their ordered structure allows uniform distribution of catalytic sites [4]. Separation science benefits from MOFs through selective adsorption of specific molecules based on size and chemical affinity. Applications include purification of gases and remov al of pollutants from water. Advances in stability and scalability have improved their practical applicability. Characterization techniques such as crystallography and spectroscopy provide insight into MOF structures and performance. Continuous development in ligand design and post-synthetic modification further enhances functionality [5]. MOFs thus represent a fusion of coordination chemistry and materials science, offering versatile solutions for adsorption, storage, and catalysis. Conclusion Metal–organic frameworks provide highly porous and tunable structures suitable for adsorption, gas storage, separation, and catalytic applications. Their unique coordination-based architecture allows precise control over chemical functionality and pore design. Ongoing research continues to expand their potential in advanced chemical technologies. Continued research and development will further expand their applications in advanced chemical and material technologies. Through advanced membranes, catalysts, and electrolytes, fuel cells provide sustainable and clean power solutions. Continued development of durable and cost-effective materials will expand the role of fuel cells in future energy systems. REFERENCES 1. Sun MH, Huang SZ. Applications of hierarchically structured porous materials from energy storage and conversion, catalysis, photocatalysis, adsorption, separation, and sensing to biomedicine. Chemical society reviews. 2016;45(12):3479-563. 2. Chen Z, Kirlikovali KO, Li P, Farha OK. Reticular chemistry for highly porous metal–organic frameworks: The chemistry and applications. Accounts of chemical research. 2022 Feb 3;55(4):579-91. 3. Huang A, He Y. A review of recent applications of porous metals and metal oxide in energy storage, sensing and catalysis. Journal of Materials Science. 2019 Jan;54(2):949-73. 4. Cai G, Yan P, Zhang L, Zhou HC, Jiang HL. Metal–organic framework-based hierarchically porous materials: synthesis and applications. Chemical Reviews. 2021 Jul 19;121(20):12278-326. 5. Furukawa H, Cordova KE, O’Keeffe M, Yaghi OM. The chemistry and applications of metal-organic frameworks. Science. 2013 Aug 30;341(6149):1230444.