Opportunities and Challenges of Metal–Organic Framework Micro/Nano Reactors for Cascade Reactions

Abstract

Building bridges among different types of catalysts to construct cascades is a highly worthwhile pursuit, such as chemo-, bio-, and chemo–bio cascade reactions. Cascade reactions can improve the reaction efficiency and selectivity while reducing steps of separation and purification, thereby promoting the development of “green chemistry”. However, compatibility issues in cascade reactions pose significant constraints on the development of this field, particularly concerning the compatibility of diverse catalyst types, reaction conditions, and reaction rates. Metal–organic framework micro/nano reactors (MOF-MNRs) are porous crystalline materials formed by the self-assembly coordination of metal sites and organic ligands, possessing a periodic network structure. Due to the uniform pore size with the capability of controlling selective transfer of substances as well as protecting active substances and the organic–inorganic parts providing reactive microenvironment, MOF-MNRs have attracted significant attention in cascade reactions in recent years. In this Perspective, we first discuss how to address compatibility issues in cascade reactions using MOF-MNRs, including structural design and synthetic strategies. Then we summarize the research progress on MOF-MNRs in various cascade reactions. Finally, we analyze the challenges facing MOF-MNRs and potential breakthrough directions and opportunities for the future.

Deriving multi-metal nanomaterials on metal–organic framework platforms for oxygen electrocatalysis

“…Derived from conventional MOF synthetic methods, various approaches have been investigated to construct multi-metallic nanomaterials. In this segment, we systematically discuss several fundamental approaches toward the synthesis of multi-metallic nanomaterials derived from MOFs, 123,124 including a multimetallic occupied metal node strategy, 2,125,126 post-synthetic ion-exchange strategy, [127][128][129] multi-step seed-mediated growth method, [130][131][132] guest species encapsulation strategy, and multimetal diffusion strategy. [133][134][135] We have tabulated various synthetic methods with comprehensive details on their respective synthetic conditions, including the cost and scaling efficiency.…”

Synergistic Innovations: Organometallic Frameworks on Graphene Oxide for Sustainable Eco-Energy Solutions

“…Organometallic-graphene oxide catalysts demonstrate remarkable selectivity in catalyzing clean fuel synthesis reactions [149,150]. The controlled environment provided by the OMF allows for precise control over reaction pathways, minimizing unwanted byproducts and enhancing sustainability [151]. The tunability of OMFs enables tailoring catalytic sites for high activity and selectivity, essential for green energy processes [152].…”