Diverse π-π stacking motifs modulate electrical conductivity in tetrathiafulvalene-based metal-organic frameworks

Microporous Zr-metal-organic frameworks based-nanocomposites for thermoelectric applications

In the area of energy storage and conversion, Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are receiving more and more attention. They combine organic nature with long-range order and low thermal conductivity, giving them qualities to be potentially attractive for thermoelectric applications. To make the framework electrically conductive so far, thermoelectricity in this class of materials requires infiltration by outside conductive guest molecules. In this study, an in-situ polymerization of conductive polyaniline inside the porous structure of MOF-801 was conducted to synthesize PANi@MOF-801 nanocomposites for thermoelectrical applications. The growth of polyaniline chains of different loadings inside the host MOF matrix generally enhanced bulk electrical conductivity by about 6 orders of magnitude, leading to Seebeck coefficient value of -141 µVK-1 and improved thermal stability. The unusual increase in electrical conductivity was attributed to the formation of highly oriented conductive PANi chains inside the MOF pores, besides host-guest physical interaction, while the Seebeck coefficient enhancement was because of the energy filtering effect of the developed structure. Modulating the composition of PANi@MOF-801 composites by varying the aniline: MOF-801 ratio in the synthesis bath from 2:1 and 1:1 to 1:2 leads to a change in the semiconductor properties from p-type semiconductor to n-type. Among the examined composites with n-type semiconducting properties exhibited the highest ZT value, 0.015, and lowest thermal conductivity, 0.24 Wm-1 K-1. The synthesized composites have better performance than those recently reported for a similar category of thermoelectric materials related to MOF-based composites.

Dynamic Interchain Motion in 1D Tetrathiafulvalene-Based Coordination Polymers for Highly Sensitive Molecular Recognition

The application of electrically conductive 1D coordination polymers (1D CPs) in nanoelectronic molecular recognition is theoretically promising yet rarely explored due to the challenges in their synthesis and optimization of electrical properties. In this regard, two tetrathiafulvalene-based 1D CPs, namely [Co(m-H2TTFTB)(DMF)2(H2O)]n (Co-m-TTFTB), and {[Ni(m-H2TTFTB)(CH3CH2OH)1.5(H2O)1.5]·(H2O)0.5}n (Ni-m-TTFTB) are successfully constructed. The shorter S···S contacts between the [M(solvent)3(m-H2TTFTB)]n chains contribute to a significant improvement in their electrical conductivities. The powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) under different organic solvents reveals the flexible and dynamic structural characteristic of M-m-TTFTB, which, combined with the 1D morphology, lead to their excellent performance for sensitive detection of volatile organic compounds. Co-m-TTFTB achieves a limit of detection for ethanol vapor down to 0.5 ppm, which is superior to the state-of-the-art chemiresistive sensors based on metal-organic frameworks or organic polymers at room temperature. In situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, PXRD measurements and density functional theory calculations reveal the molecular insertion sensing mechanism and the corresponding structure-function relationship. This work expands the applicable scenario of 1D CPs and opens a new realm of 1D CP-based nanoelectronic sensors for highly sensitive room temperature gas detection.

High-performance one-dimensional halide perovskite crossbar memristors and synapses for neuromorphic computing

Despite impressive demonstrations of memristive behavior with halide perovskites, no clear pathway for material and device design exists for their applications in neuromorphic computing. Present approaches are limited to single element structures, fall behind in terms of switching reliability and scalability, and fail to map out the analog programming window of such devices. Here, we systematically design and evaluate robust pyridinium-templated one-dimensional halide perovskites as crossbar memristive materials for artificial neural networks. We compare two halide perovskite 1D inorganic lattices, namely (propyl)pyridinium and (benzyl)pyridinium lead iodide. The absence of conjugated, electron-rich substituents in PrPyr+ prevents edge-to-face type π-stacking, leading to enhanced electronic isolation of the 1D iodoplumbate chains in (PrPyr)[PbI3], and hence, superior resistive switching performance compared to (BnzPyr)[PbI3]. We report outstanding resistive switching behaviours in (PrPyr)[PbI3] on the largest flexible crossbar implementation (16 × 16) to date - on/off ratio (>105), long term retention (105 s) and high endurance (2000 cycles). Finally, we put forth a universal approach to comprehensively map the analog programming window of halide perovskite memristive devices - a critical prerequisite for weighted synaptic connections in artificial neural networks. This consequently facilitates the demonstration of accurate handwritten digit recognition from the MNIST database based on spike-timing-dependent plasticity of halide perovskite memristive synapses.

Construction of a stable radical hydrogen-bonded metal-organic framework with functionalized tetrathiafulvalene linkers

A stable two-dimensional radical hydrogen-bonded metal-organic framework, constructed using a modified tetrathiafulvalene-tetrabenzoate ((2-Me)-H4TTFTB) linker and Cd2+ ions, exhibits a high electrical conductivity of 4.1 × 10-4 S m-1 and excellent photothermal conversion with a temperature increase of 137 °C in 15 s under the irradiation of a 0.7 W cm-2 808 nm laser.

An electrically conducting 3D coronene-based metal-organic framework

A novel cubic mesoporous metal-organic framework (MOF), consisting of hexahydroxy-cata-hexabenzocoronene (c-HBC) and FeIII ions is presented. The highly crystalline and porous MOF features broad optical absorption over the whole visible and near infrared spectral regions. An electrical conductivity of 10-4 S cm-1 was measured on a pressed pellet.

Metal-organic Frameworks in Semiconductor Devices

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a specific class of hybrid, crystalline, nano-porous materials made of metal-ion-based 'nodes' and organic linkers. Most of the studies on MOFs largely focused on porosity, chemical and structural diversity, gas sorption, sensing, drug delivery, catalysis, and separation applications. In contrast, much less reports paid attention to understanding and tuning the electrical properties of MOFs. Poor electrical conductivity of MOFs (~10-7-10-10 S cm-1), reported in earlier studies, impeded their applications in electronics, optoelectronics, and renewable energy storage. To overcome this drawback, the MOF community has adopted several intriguing strategies for electronic applications. The present review focuses on creatively designed bulk MOFs and surface-anchored MOFs (SURMOFs) with different metal nodes (from transition metals to lanthanides), ligand functionalities, and doping entities, allowing tuning and enhancement of electrical conductivity. Diverse platforms for MOFs-based electronic device fabrications, conductivity measurements, and underlying charge transport mechanisms are also addressed. Overall, the review highlights the pros and cons of MOFs-based electronics (MOFtronics), followed by an analysis of the future directions of research, including optimization of the MOF compositions, heterostructures, electrical contacts, device stacking, and further relevant options which can be of interest for MOF researchers and result in improved devices performance.

Strategies to Improve Electrical Conductivity in Metal-Organic Frameworks: A Comparative Study

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), formed by the combination of both inorganic and organic components, have attracted special attention for their tunable porous structures, chemical and functional diversities, and enormous applications in gas storage, catalysis, sensing, etc. Recently, electronic applications of MOFs like electrocatalysis, supercapacitors, batteries, electrochemical sensing, etc., have become a major research topic in MOF chemistry. However, the low electrical conductivity of most MOFs represents a major handicap in the development of these emerging applications. To overcome these limitations, different strategies have been developed to enhance electrical conductivity of MOFs for their implementation in electronic devices. In this review, we outline all these strategies employed to increase the electronic conduction in both intrinsically (framework-modulated) and extrinsically (guests-modulated) conducting MOFs.

A redox active rod coordination polymer from tetrakis(4-carboxylic acid biphenyl)tetrathiafulvalene

An enlarged version of the ubiquitous tetrathiafulvalene-tetrabenzoic acid is described, with 4,4'-biphenyl moieties as spacers between the coordination moieties and the electroactive core. The obtained rectangular ligand has a 14 × 22 Å2 size and is combined with Zn(II) under solvothermal conditions to yield a coordination polymer endowed with large cavities of ca. 15 × 11 Å2/10 × 10 Å2. The topology of the material is discussed in detail using the Points of Extension and Metals (PE&M) or the Straight-rod (STR) representation, and the sqc1121 or tfo topological type of the structure is observed, respectively. Its stability towards solvent removal and electrical properties are discussed. The material does not present any permanent porosity upon desolvation according to nitrogen sorption measurements at 77 K. Nevertheless, a significant increase in conductivity is observed on compressed pellets of the material upon post-synthetic oxidation with iodine. Raman spectroscopy combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations has been used to characterize the oxidation state of tetrakis(4-carboxylic acid biphenyl)tetrathiafulvalene for coordination polymers.

NIR-II photothermal conversion and imaging based on a cocrystal containing twisted components

On account of the scarcity of molecules with a satisfactory second near-infrared (NIR-II) response, the design of high-performance organic NIR photothermal materials has been limited. Herein, we investigate a cocrystal incorporating tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) and tetrachloroperylene dianhydride (TCPDA) components. A stable radical was generated through charge transfer from TTF to TCPDA, which exhibits strong and wide-ranging NIR-II absorption. The metal-free TTF-TCPDA cocrystal in this research shows high photothermal conversion capability under 1064 nm laser irradiation and clear photothermal imaging. The remarkable conversion ability-which is a result of twisted components in the cocrystal-has been demonstrated by analyses of single crystal X-ray diffraction, photoluminescence and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy as well as theoretical calculations. We have discovered that space charge separation and the ordered lattice in the TTF-TCPDA cocrystal suppress the radiative decay, while simultaneously strong intermolecular charge transfer enhances the non-radiative decay. The twisted TCPDA component induces rapid charge recombination, while the distorted configuration in TTF-TCPDA favors an internal non-radiative pathway. This research has provided a comprehensive understanding of the photothermal conversion mechanism and opened a new way for the design of advanced organic NIR-II photothermal materials.

Engineering of CdS-chain arrays assembled through S⋯S interactions in 1D semiconductive coordination polymers

One-dimensional (1D) Cd(II) coordination polymers [Cd(x-SPhOMe)2]n (x = ortho, meta, and para; HSPhOMe = methoxybenzenethiol) containing inorganic 1D (-Cd-S-)n chains were synthesized. Among these, the KGF-31 polymer bearing para-SPhOMe featured a three-strand chain structure assembled via interchain S⋯S interactions and exhibited high photoconductivity and longevity.

The AM-4 Family of Layered Titanosilicates: Single-Crystal-to-Single-Crystal Transformation, Synthesis and Ionic Conductivity

Flexible crystal() structures, which exhibit() single-crystal()-to-single-crystal() (SCSC) transformations(), are attracting attention() in many applied aspects: magnetic() switches, catalysis, ferroelectrics and sorption. Acid treatment() for titanosilicate material() AM-4 and natural() compounds with the same structures led to SCSC transformation() by loss() Na+, Li+ and Zn2+ cations with large structural() changes (20% of the unit()-cell() volume()). The conservation() of crystallinity through complex() transformation() is possible due() to the formation() of a strong hydrogen bonding() system(). The mechanism() of transformation() has been characterized using single-crystal() X-ray() diffraction analysis(), powder() diffraction, Rietvield refinement, Raman spectroscopy and electron microscopy. The low migration() energy() of cations in the considered materials() is confirmed using bond()-valence and density() functional() theory() calculations, and the ion conductivity of the AM-4 family's materials() has been experimentally verified.

Mixed-Valence CuI /CuIII Metal-Organic Frameworks with Non-innocent Ligand for Multielectron Transfer

We report two novel three-dimensional copper-benzoquinoid metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), [Cu4 L3 ]n and [Cu4 L3  ⋅ Cu(iq)3 ]n (LH4 =1,4-dicyano-2,3,5,6-tetrahydroxybenzene, iq=isoquinoline). Spectroscopic techniques and computational studies reveal the unprecedented mixed valency in MOFs, formal Cu(I)/Cu(III). This is the first time that formally Cu(III) species are witnessed in metal-organic extended solids. The coordination between the mixed-valence metal and redox-non-innocent ligand L, which promotes through-bond charge transfer between Cu metal sites, allows better metal-ligand orbital overlap of the d-π conjugation, leading to strong long-range delocalization and semiconducting behavior. Our findings highlight the significance of the unique mixed valency between formal Cu(I) and highly-covalent Cu(III), non-innocent ligand, and pore environments of these bench stable Cu(III)-containing frameworks on multielectron transfer and electrochemical properties.

Rational Design and Reticulation of Infinite qbe Rod Secondary Building Units into Metal-Organic Frameworks through a Global Desymmetrization Approach for Inverse C3 H8 /C3 H6 Separation

The development of reticular chemistry has enabled the construction of a large array of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with diverse net topologies and functions. However, dominating this class of materials are those built from discrete/finite secondary building units (SBUs), yet the designed synthesis of frameworks involving infinite rod-shaped SBUs remain underdeveloped. Here, by virtue of a global linker desymmetrization approach, we successfully targeted a novel Cu-MOF (Cu-ASY) incorporating infinite Cu-carboxylate rod SBUs with its structure determined by micro electron diffraction (MicroED) crystallography. Interestingly, the rod SBU can be simplified as a unique cylindric sphere packing qbe tubule made of [43 .62 ] tiles, which further connect the tritopic linkers to give a newly discovered 3,5-connected gfc net. Cu-ASY is a permanent ultramicroporous material featuring 1D channels with highly inert surfaces and shows a preferential adsorption of propane (C3 H8 ) over propene (C3 H6 ). The efficiency of C3 H8 selective Cu-ASY is validated by multicycle breakthrough experiments, giving C3 H6 productivity of 2.2 L/kg. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that C3 H8 molecules form multiple C-H⋅⋅⋅π and atypical C-H⋅⋅⋅ H-C van der Waals interactions with the inner nonpolar surfaces. This work therefore highlights the linker desymmetrization as an encouraging and intriguing strategy for achieving unique MOF structures and properties.

A GPT-4 Reticular Chemist for Guiding MOF Discovery

We present a new framework integrating the AI model GPT-4 into the iterative process of reticular chemistry experimentation, leveraging a cooperative workflow of interaction between AI and a human researcher. This GPT-4 Reticular Chemist is an integrated system composed of three phases. Each of these utilizes GPT-4 in various capacities, wherein GPT-4 provides detailed instructions for chemical experimentation and the human provides feedback on the experimental outcomes, including both success and failures, for the in-context learning of AI in the next iteration. This iterative human-AI interaction enabled GPT-4 to learn from the outcomes, much like an experienced chemist, by a prompt-learning strategy. Importantly, the system is based on natural language for both development and operation, eliminating the need for coding skills, and thus, make it accessible to all chemists. Our collaboration with GPT-4 Reticular Chemist guided the discovery of an isoreticular series of MOFs, with each synthesis fine-tuned through iterative feedback and expert suggestions. This workflow presents a potential for broader applications in scientific research by harnessing the capability of large language models like GPT-4 to enhance the feasibility and efficiency of research activities.

Application of Conductive MOF in Zinc-Based Batteries

The use of conductive MOFs (c-MOFs) in zinc-based batteries has been a popular research direction. Zinc-based batteries are widely used with the advantages of high specific capacity and safety and stability, but they also face many problems. c-MOFs have excellent conductivity compared with other primitive MOFs, and therefore have better applications in zinc-based batteries. In this paper, the transfer mechanisms of the unique charges of c-MOFs: hop transport and band transport, respectively, are discussed and the way of electron transport is further addressed. Then, the various ways to prepare c-MOFs are introduced, among which solvothermal, interfacial synthesis, and postprocessing methods are widely used. In addition, the applications of c-MOFs are discussed in terms of their role and performance in different types of zinc-based batteries. Finally, the current problems of c-MOFs and the prospects for their future development are presented.

Hydrogenation of Carbon Dioxide to Formate by Noble Metal Catalysts Supported on a Chemically Stable Lanthanum Rod-Metal-Organic Framework

The conversion of carbon dioxide to formate is of great importance for hydrogen storage as well as being a step to access an array of olefins. Herein, we have prepared a JMS-5 metal-organic framework (MOF) using a bipyridyl dicarboxylate linker, with the molecular formula [La₂(bpdc)_3/2(dmf)₂(OAc)₃]·dmf. The MOF was functionalized by cyclometalation using Pd(II), Pt(II), Ru(II), Rh(III), and Ir(III) complexes. All metal catalysts supported on JMS-5 showed activity for CO₂ hydrogenation to formate, with Rh(III)@JMS-5a and Ir(III)@JMS-5a yielding 4319 and 5473 TON, respectively. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the most active catalyst Ir(III)@JMS-5a revealed that the iridium binding energies shifted to lower values, consistent with formation of Ir-H active species during catalysis. The transmission electron microscopy images of the recovered catalysts of Ir(III)@JMS-5a and Rh(III)@JMS-5a did not show any nanoparticles. This suggests that the catalytic activity observed was due to Ir(III) and Rh(III). The high activity displayed by Ir(III)@JMS-5a and Rh(III)@JMS-5a compared to using the Ir(III) and Rh(III) complexes on their own is attributed to the stabilization of the Ir(III) and Rh(III) on the nitrogen and carbon atom of the MOF backbone.

Redox-Active Two-Dimensional Tetrathiafulvalene-Copper Metal-Organic Framework with Boosted Electrochemical Performances for Supercapatteries

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted noticeable attention as promising candidates for electrochemical energy storage. However, the lack of electrical conductivity and the weak stability of most MOFs result in poor electrochemical performances. Here, a tetrathiafulvalene (TTF)-based complex, formulated as [(CuCN)₂(TTF(py)₄)] (1) (TTF-(py)₄ = tetra(4-pyridyl)-TTF), is assembled by in situ generation of coordinated CN^- from a nontoxic source. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that compound 1 possesses a two-dimensional layered planar structure, which is further stacked in parallel to form a three-dimensional supramolecular framework. The planar coordination environment of 1 is the first example of a TTF-based MOF. Attributed to the unique structure and redox TTF ligand, the electrical conductivity of 1 is significantly increased by 5 orders of magnitude upon iodine treatment. The iodine-treated 1 (1-ox) electrode displays typical battery-type behavior through electrochemical characterizations. The supercapattery based on the 1-ox positrode and AC negatrode presents a high specific capacity of 266.5 C g^-1 at a specific current of 1 A g^-1 with a remarkable specific energy of 62.9 Wh kg^-1 at a specific power of 1.1 kW kg^-1. The excellent electrochemical performance of 1-ox is one of the best among those reported supercapatteries, demonstrating a new strategy for developing MOF-based electrode materials.

A hexagon based Mn(II) rod metal-organic framework - structure, SF6 gas sorption, magnetism and electrochemistry

A manganese(II) metal-organic framework based on the hexatopic hexakis(4-carboxyphenyl)benzene, cpb^6-: [Mn₃(cpb)(dmf)₃], was solvothermally prepared showing a Langmuir area of 438 m² g^-1, rapid uptake OF sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) as well as electrochemical and magnetic properties, while single crystal diffraction reveals an unusual rod-MOF topology.

Oxidatively Doped Tetrathiafulvalene-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks for High Specific Energy of Supercapatteries

Poor electrical conductivity and instability of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have limited their energy storage and conversion efficiency. In this work, we report the application of oxidatively doped tetrathiafulvalene (TTF)-based MOFs for high-performance electrodes in supercapatteries. Two isostructural MOFs, formulated as [M(py-TTF-py)(BPDC)]·2H₂O (M = Ni^II (1), Zn^II (2); py-TTF-py = 2,6-bis(4'-pyridyl)TTF; H₂BPDC = biphenyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid), are crystallographically characterized. The structural analyses show that the two MOFs possess a three-dimensional 8-fold interpenetrating diamond-like topology, which is the first example for TTF-based dual-ligand MOFs. Upon iodine treatment, MOFs 1 and 2 are converted into oxidatively doped 1-ox and 2-ox with high crystallinity. The electrical conductivity of 1-ox and 2-ox is significantly increased by six∼seven orders of magnitude. Benefiting from the unique structure and the pronounced development of electrical conductivity, the specific capacities reach 833.2 and 828.3 C g^-1 at a specific current of 1 A g^-1 for 1-ox and 2-ox, respectively. When used as a battery-type positrode to assemble a supercapattery, the AC∥1-ox and AC∥2-ox (AC = activated carbon) present an energy density of 90.3 and 83.0 Wh kg^-1 at a power density of 1.18 kW kg^-1 and great cycling stability with 82% of original capacity and 92% columbic efficiency retention after 10,000 cycles. Ex situ characterization illustrates the ligand-dominated mechanism in the charge/discharge processes. The excellent electrochemical performances of 1-ox and 2-ox are rarely reported for supercapatteries, illustrating that the construction of unique highly dense and robust structures of MOFs followed by postsynthetic oxidative doping is an effective approach to fabricate MOF-based electrode materials.

Conductive Metal-Organic Frameworks for Supercapacitors

As a class of porous materials with crystal lattices, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), featuring outstanding specific surface area, tunable functionality, and versatile structures, have attracted huge attention in the past two decades. Since the first conductive MOF is successfully synthesized in 2009, considerable progress has been achieved for the development of conductive MOFs, allowing their use in diverse applications for electrochemical energy storage. Among those applications, supercapacitors have received great interest because of their high power density, fast charging ability, and excellent cycling stability. Here, the efforts hitherto devoted to the synthesis and design of conductive MOFs and their auspicious capacitive performance are summarized. Using conductive MOFs as a unique platform medium, the electronic and molecular aspects of the energy storage mechanism in supercapacitors with MOF electrodes are discussed, highlighting the advantages and limitations to inspire new ideas for the development of conductive MOFs for supercapacitors.

Recent Progress of Advanced Conductive Metal-Organic Frameworks: Precise Synthesis, Electrochemical Energy Storage Applications, and Future Challenges

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with diverse composition, tunable structure, and unique physicochemical properties have emerged as promising materials in various fields. The tunable pore structure, abundant active sites, and ultrahigh specific surface area can facilitate mass transport and provide outstanding capacity, making MOFs an ideal active material for electrochemical energy storage and conversion. However, the poor electrical conductivity of pristine MOFs severely limits their applications in electrochemistry. Developing conductive MOFs has proved to be an effective solution to this problem. This review focuses on the design and synthesis of conductive MOF composites with judiciously chosen conducting materials, pristine MOFs, and assembly methods, as well as the preparation of intrinsically conductive MOFs based on building 2D π-conjugated structures, introducing mixed-valence metal ions/redox-active ligands, designing π-π stacked pathways, and constructing infinite metal-sulfur chains (-M-S-)_∞ . Furthermore, recent progress and challenges of conductive MOFs for energy storage and conversion (supercapacitors, Li-ion batteries, Li-S batteries, and electrochemical water splitting) are summarized.

The topology of crystalline matter

In this chapter an overview is given in which way framework-like crystalline compounds can be regarded as nets, how a net is derived out of a particular crystal structure, what nets actually are, how they can be appropriately described, what the characteristics of nets are, and how this topological approach helps to categorize framework compounds. Finally the term reticular chemistry is explained and a number of examples are given how the topology-guided approach opens up new possibilities to intentionally develop new framework structures on a rational basis.

Redox-Active Metal-Organic Frameworks with Three-Dimensional Lattice Containing the m-Tetrathiafulvalene-Tetrabenzoate

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) constructed by tetrathiafulvalene-tetrabenzoate (H₄TTFTB) have been widely studied in porous materials, while the studies of other TTFTB derivatives are rare. Herein, the meta derivative of the frequently used p-H₄TTFTB ligand, m-H₄TTFTB, and lanthanide (Ln) metal ions (Tb³⁺, Er³⁺, and Gd³⁺) were assembled into three novel MOFs. Compared with the reported porous Ln-TTFTB, the resulted three-dimensional frameworks, Ln-m-TTFTB ([Ln₂(m-TTFTB)(m-H₂TTFTB)_0.5(HCOO)(DMF)]·2DMF·3H₂O), possess a more dense stacking which leads to scarce porosity. The solid-state cyclic voltammetry studies revealed that these MOFs show similar redox activity with two reversible one-electron processes at 0.21 and 0.48 V (vs. Fc/Fc⁺). The results of magnetic properties suggested Dy-m-TTFTB and Er-m-TTFTB exhibit slow relaxation of the magnetization. Porosity was not found in these materials, which is probably due to the meta-configuration of the m-TTFTB ligand that seems to hinder the formation of pores. However, the m-TTFTB ligand has shown to be promising to construct redox-active or electrically conductive MOFs in future work.

Interplay of Electronic and Geometric Structure Tunes Organic Biradical Character in Bimetallic Tetrathiafulvalene Tetrathiolate Complexes

The synthesis and design of organic biradicals with tunable singlet-triplet gaps have become the subject of significant research interest, owing to their possible photochemical applications and use in the development of molecular switches and conductors. Recently, tetrathiafulvalene tetrathiolate (TTFtt) has been demonstrated to exhibit such organic biradical character in doubly ionized bimetallic complexes. In this article we use high-level ab initio calculations to interrogate the electronic structure of a series of TTFtt-bridged metal complexes, resolving the factors governing their biradical character and singlet-triplet gaps. We show that the degree of biradical character correlates with a readily measured experimental predictor, the central TTFtt C-C bond length, and that it may be described by a one-parameter model, providing valuable insight for the future rational design of TTFtt based biradical compounds and materials.

Framework-promoted charge transfer for highly selective photoelectrochemical biosensing of dopamine

Traditional photoelectrochemical (PEC) systems with inorganic semiconductors as photoactive materials generally involve effortless recombination of electron-hole pairs, which greatly limit the detection sensitivity. The arrangement of multiple components with tunable bandgaps provides an effective way to accelerate charge transfer. In this work, a framework material with adjustable structure was used to promote the charge transfer in the PEC process. The framework was constructed with 9,10-di(p-carboxyphenyl)anthracene (DPA) ligands as the light collector to coordinate with Zn²⁺ nodes, which formed an electronegative metal-organic framework (ZnMOF), and showed good conductivity and PEC performance due to the π-π stacking of DPA and the intrareticular charge transfer. Based on the band and charge matching of dopamine (DA) with ZnMOF, the ZnMOF modified electrode as a biosensor showed excellent PEC response to DA with good selectivity, thus realized sensitive detection of DA ranging from 0.03 to 10 μM with a detection limit of 17.7 nM. The biosensor could be used to monitor the release of DA from PC12 cells and evaluate the stimulation of K⁺ to DA release. The conductive framework material provided an approach to develop highly selective sensing platform for trace bioanalysis.

Chiral Lanthanum Metal-Organic Framework with Gated CO2 Sorption and Concerted Framework Flexibility

A metal–organic framework (MOF) CTH-17 based on lanthanum(III) and the conformationally chiral linker 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis(4-carboxyphenyl)benzene, cpb^6–: [La₂(cpb)]·1.5dmf was prepared by the solvothermal method in dimethylformamide (dmf) and characterized by variable-temperature X-ray powder diffraction (VTPXRD), variable-temperature X-ray single-crystal diffraction (SCXRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). CTH-17 is a rod-MOF with new topology och. It has high-temperature stability with Sohncke space groups P6₁22/P6₅22 at 90 K and P622 at 300 and 500 K, all phases characterized with SCXRD and at 293 K also with three-dimensional (3D) electron diffraction. VTPXRD indicates a third phase appearing after 620 K and stable up to 770 K. Gas sorption isotherms with N₂ indicate a modest surface area of 231 m² g^–1 for CTH-17, roughly in agreement with the crystal structure. Carbon dioxide sorption reveals a gate-opening effect of CTH-17 where the structure opens up when the loading of CO₂ reaches approximately ∼0.45 mmol g^–1 or 1 molecule per unit cell. Based on the SCXRD data, this is interpreted as flexibility based on the concerted movements of the propeller-like hexatopic cpb linkers, the movement intramolecularly transmitted by the π–π stacking of the cpb linkers and helped by the fluidity of the LaO₆ coordination sphere. This was corroborated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations yielding the chiral phase (P622) as the energy minimum and a completely racemic phase (P6/mmm), with symmetric cpb linkers representing a saddle point in a racemization process.

The role of local heteropolyhedral substitutions in the stoichiometry, topological characteristics and ion-migration paths in the eudialyte-related structures: a quantitative analysis

Topological analysis of the heteropolyhedral MT framework (where M and T are octahedral and tetrahedral cations, respectively) in the eudialyte-type structure and its derivatives was performed based on a natural tiling analysis of the 3D cation. To analyze the migration paths of sodium cations in these structures, the Voronoi method was used. The parental eudialyte-type MT framework is formed by isolated ZO₆ octahedra, six-membered [M(1)₆O₂₄] rings of edge-sharing M(1)O₆ octahedra, and two kinds of rings of tetrahedra, [Si₃O₉] and [Si₉O₂₇]. Different occupancies of M(2), M(3) and M(4) sites with variable coordination numbers by the additional Q, T* and M* cations, respectively, result in 12 different types of the MT framework. Based on the results of natural tilings calculations as well as theoretical analysis of migration paths, it is found that Na⁺ ions can migrate through six- and seven-membered rings, while all other rings are too small for the migration. In eight types of MT frameworks, Na⁺-ion migration and diffusion is possible at ambient temperature and pressure, while in four other types cages are connected by narrow windows and, as a result, the Na⁺ diffusion in them is complicated at ambient conditions because of the window diameter, but may be possible either at higher temperatures or under mild geological conditions for long periods of time.

Enhancing the photothermal conversion of tetrathiafulvalene-based MOFs by redox doping and plasmon resonance

Near-infrared (NIR) photothermal materials hold great promise for use in several applications, particularly in photothermal therapy, diagnosis, and imaging. However, current NIR responsive materials often show narrow absorption bands and low absorption efficiency, and have long response times. Herein, we demonstrate that the NIR absorption of tetrathiafulvalene-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) can be tuned by redox doping and using plasmonic nanoparticles. In this work, a MOF containing redox-active tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) units and Dy-carboxylate chains was constructed, Dy-m-TTFTB. The NIR absorption of the as-synthesized Dy-m-TTFTB was further enhanced by Ag⁺ or I₂ oxidation, transforming the neutral TTF into a TTF˙⁺ radical state. Interestingly, treatment with Ag⁺ not only generated TTF˙⁺ radicals, but it also formed Ag nanoparticles (NPs) in situ within the MOF pores. With both TTF˙⁺ radicals and Ag NPs, Ag NPs@Dy-m-TTFTB was shown to exhibit a wide range of absorption wavelengths (200–1000 nm) and also a high NIR photothermal conversion. When the system was irradiated with an 808 nm laser (energy power of 0.7 W cm⁻²), Ag NPs@Dy-m-TTFTB showed a sharp temperature increase of 239.8 °C. This increase was higher than that of pristine Dy-m-TTFTB (90.1 °C) or I₂ treated I₃⁻@Dy-m-TTFTB (213.0 °C).

The photo-response of the redox-active metal–organic framework has been systematically tuned by incorporating plasmonic Ag nanoparticles and tetrathiafulvalene radicals, resulting in efficient near-infrared photothermal conversion materials.

Evolution of water structures in metal-organic frameworks for improved atmospheric water harvesting

[Figure: see text].

Effects of intervalence charge transfer interaction between π-stacked mixed valent tetrathiafulvalene ligands on the electrical conductivity of 3D metal-organic frameworks

Achieving a molecular-level understanding of how the structures and compositions of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) influence their charge carrier concentration and charge transport mechanism—the two key parameters of electrical conductivity—is essential for the successful development of electrically conducting MOFs, which have recently emerged as one of the most coveted functional materials due to their diverse potential applications in advanced electronics and energy technologies. Herein, we have constructed four new alkali metal (Na, K, Rb, and Cs) frameworks based on an electron-rich tetrathiafulvalene tetracarboxylate (TTFTC) ligand, which formed continuous π-stacks, albeit with different π–π-stacking and S⋯S distances (d_π–π and d_S⋯S). These MOFs also contained different amounts of aerobically oxidized TTFTC˙⁺ radical cations that were quantified by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. Density functional theory calculations and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy demonstrated that depending on the π–π-interaction and TTFTC˙⁺ population, these MOFs enjoyed varying degrees of TTFTC/TTFTC˙⁺ intervalence charge transfer (IVCT) interactions, which commensurately affected their electronic and optical band gaps and electrical conductivity. Having the shortest d_π–π (3.39 Å) and the largest initial TTFTC˙⁺ population (∼23%), the oxidized Na-MOF 1-ox displayed the narrowest band gap (1.33 eV) and the highest room temperature electrical conductivity (3.6 × 10⁻⁵ S cm⁻¹), whereas owing to its longest d_π–π (3.68 Å) and a negligible TTFTC˙⁺ population, neutral Cs-MOF 4 exhibited the widest band gap (2.15 eV) and the lowest electrical conductivity (1.8 × 10⁻⁷ S cm⁻¹). The freshly prepared but not optimally oxidized K-MOF 2 and Rb-MOF 3 initially displayed intermediate band gaps and conductivity, however, upon prolonged aerobic oxidation, which raised the TTFTC˙⁺ population to saturation levels (∼25 and 10%, respectively), the resulting 2-ox and 3-ox displayed much narrower band gaps (∼1.35 eV) and higher electrical conductivity (6.6 × 10⁻⁵ and 4.7 × 10⁻⁵ S cm⁻¹, respectively). The computational studies indicated that charge movement in these MOFs occurred predominantly through the π-stacked ligands, while the experimental results displayed the combined effects of π–π-interactions, TTFTC˙⁺ population, and TTFTC/TTFTC˙⁺ IVCT interaction on their electronic and optical properties, demonstrating that IVCT interactions between the mixed-valent ligands could be exploited as an effective design strategy to develop electrically conducting MOFs.

Through-space charge movement enabled by intervalence charge transfer interactions between π-stacked mixed-valent tetrathiafulvalene ligands creates electrical conductivity in three-dimensional metal–organic frameworks.

Self-Assembling Hydrogel Structures for Neural Tissue Repair

Hydrogel materials have been employed as biological scaffolds for tissue regeneration across a wide range of applications. Their versatility and biomimetic properties make them an optimal choice for treating the complex and delicate milieu of neural tissue damage. Aside from finely tailored hydrogel properties, which aim to mimic healthy physiological tissue, a minimally invasive delivery method is essential to prevent off-target and surgery-related complications. The specific class of injectable hydrogels termed self-assembling peptides (SAPs), provide an ideal combination of in situ polymerization combined with versatility for biofunctionlization, tunable physicochemical properties, and high cytocompatibility. This review identifies design criteria for neural scaffolds based upon key cellular interactions with the neural extracellular matrix (ECM), with emphasis on aspects that are reproducible in a biomaterial environment. Examples of the most recent SAPs and modification methods are presented, with a focus on biological, mechanical, and topographical cues. Furthermore, SAP electrical properties and methods to provide appropriate electrical and electrochemical cues are widely discussed, in light of the endogenous electrical activity of neural tissue as well as the clinical effectiveness of stimulation treatments. Recent applications of SAP materials in neural repair and electrical stimulation therapies are highlighted, identifying research gaps in the field of hydrogels for neural regeneration.

Recent Progress in Designing Thermoelectric Metal-Organic Frameworks

Thermoelectrics that enable direct heat-electricity conversion possess unique advantages for green and renewable energy revolution and have received rapidly growing attention in the past decade. Among various thermoelectric materials, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with intrinsic high porosity and tunable physical/chemical properties are emerging as a promising class of materials that have been demonstrated to exhibit many unique merits for thermoelectric applications. Their structural topologies and thermoelectric properties can be facilely regulated by precisely selecting and arranging metal centers and organic ligands. Besides, a large variety of guest molecules can be incorporated within their pores, giving rise to novel avenues of raising energy-conversion efficiency. This review focuses on the recent advances in designing conductive MOFs and MOF-based composites for thermoelectric applications. It first introduces the fundamental thermoelectric parameters and the underlying regulation mechanisms specifically effective for MOFs, then summarizes the related studies conducted in recent years, where the structural design strategies of tuning thermoelectric properties are demonstrated and discussed. In the final part, conclusions and perspectives with the envision of an outlook for this promising area are presented.

Conductive Metal-Organic Frameworks: Electronic Structure and Electrochemical Applications

Smarter and minimization of devices are consistently substantial to shape the energy landscape. Significant amounts of endeavours have come forward as promising steps to surmount this formidable challenge. It is undeniable that material scientists were contemplating smarter material beyond purely inorganic or organic materials. To our delight, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), an inorganic-organic hybrid scaffold with unprecedented tunability and smart functionalities, have recently started their journey as an alternative. In this review, we focus on such propitious potential of MOFs that was untapped over a long time. We cover the synthetic strategies and (or) post-synthetic modifications towards the formation of conductive MOFs and their underlying concepts of charge transfer with structural aspects. We addressed theoretical calculations with the experimental outcomes and spectroelectrochemistry, which will trigger vigorous impetus about intrinsic electronic behaviour of the conductive frameworks. Finally, we discussed electrocatalysts and energy storage devices stemming from conductive MOFs to meet energy demand in the near future.

An Electrically Conducting Three-Dimensional Iron-Catecholate Porous Framework

We report the synthesis of a unique cubic metal–organic framework (MOF), Fe‐HHTP‐MOF, comprising hexahydroxytriphenylene (HHTP) supertetrahedral units and Fe^III ions, arranged in a diamond topology. The MOF is synthesized under solvothermal conditions, yielding a highly crystalline, deep black powder, with crystallites of 300–500 nm size and tetrahedral morphology. Nitrogen sorption analysis indicates a highly porous material with a surface area exceeding 1400 m² g⁻¹. Furthermore, Fe‐HHTP‐MOF shows broadband absorption from 475 up to 1900 nm with excellent absorption capability of 98.5 % of the incoming light over the visible spectral region. Electrical conductivity measurements of pressed pellets reveal a high intrinsic electrical conductivity of up to 10⁻³ S cm⁻¹. Quantum mechanical calculations predict Fe‐HHTP‐MOF to be an efficient electron conductor, exhibiting continuous charge‐carrier pathways throughout the structure.

Interfacial Synthesis of Layer-Oriented 2D Conjugated Metal-Organic Framework Films toward Directional Charge Transport

The development of layer-oriented two-dimensional conjugated metal-organic frameworks (2D c-MOFs) enables access to direct charge transport, dial-in lateral/vertical electronic devices, and the unveiling of transport mechanisms but remains a significant synthetic challenge. Here we report the novel synthesis of metal-phthalocyanine-based p-type semiconducting 2D c-MOF films (Cu₂[PcM-O₈], M = Cu or Fe) with an unprecedented edge-on layer orientation at the air/water interface. The edge-on structure formation is guided by the preorganization of metal-phthalocyanine ligands, whose basal plane is perpendicular to the water surface due to their π-π interaction and hydrophobicity. Benefiting from the unique layer orientation, we are able to investigate the lateral and vertical conductivities by DC methods and thus demonstrate an anisotropic charge transport in the resulting Cu₂[PcCu-O₈] film. The directional conductivity studies combined with theoretical calculation identify that the intrinsic conductivity is dominated by charge transfer along the interlayer pathway. Moreover, a macroscopic (cm² size) Hall-effect measurement reveals a Hall mobility of ∼4.4 cm² V^-1 s^-1 for the obtained Cu₂[PcCu-O₈] film. The orientation control in semiconducting 2D c-MOFs will enable the development of various optoelectronic applications and the exploration of unique transport properties.

Maximizing the Carrier Mobilities of Metal-Organic Frameworks Comprising Stacked Pentacene Units

Charge transport properties of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are of distinct interest for (opto)electronic applications. In contrast to the situation in molecular crystals, MOFs allow an extrinsic control of the relative arrangement of π-conjugated entities through the framework architecture. This suggests that MOFs should enable materials with particularly high through-space charge carrier mobilities. Such materials, however, do not yet exist, despite the synthesis of MOFs with, for example, seemingly ideally packed stacks of pentacene-bearing linkers. Their rather low mobilities have been attributed to dynamic disorder effects. Using dispersion-corrected density functional theory calculations, we show that this is only part of the problem and that targeted network design involving comparably easy-to-implement structural modifications have the potential to massively boost charge transport. For the pentacene stacks, this is related to the a priori counterintuitive observation that the electronic coupling between neighboring units can be strongly increased by increasing the stacking distance.

An Electrically Conducting Li-Ion Metal-Organic Framework

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as an important, yet highly challenging class of electrochemical energy storage materials. The chemical principles for electroactive MOFs remain, however, poorly explored because precise chemical and structural control is mandatory. For instance, no anionic MOF with a lithium cation reservoir and reversible redox (like a conventional Li-ion cathode) has been synthesized to date. Herein, we report on electrically conducting Li-ion MOF cathodes with the generic formula Li₂-M-DOBDC (wherein M = Mg²⁺ or Mn²⁺; DOBDC^4- = 2,5-dioxido-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate), by rational control of the ligand to transition metal stoichiometry and secondary building unit (SBU) topology in the archetypal CPO-27. The accurate chemical and structural changes not only enable reversible redox but also induce a million-fold electrical conductivity increase by virtue of efficient electronic self-exchange facilitated by mix-in redox: 10^-7 S/cm for Li₂-Mn-DOBDC vs 10^-13 S/cm for the isoreticular H₂-Mn-DOBDC and Li₂-Mg-DOBDC, or the Mn-CPO-27 compositional analogues. This particular SBU topology also considerably augments the redox potential of the DOBDC^4- linker (from 2.4 V up to 3.2 V, vs Li⁺/Li⁰), a highly practical feature for Li-ion battery assembly and energy evaluation. As a particular cathode material, Li₂-Mn-DOBDC displays an average discharge potential of 3.2 V vs Li⁺/Li⁰, demonstrates excellent capacity retention over 100 cycles, while also handling fast cycling rates, inherent to the intrinsic electronic conductivity. The Li₂-M-DOBDC material validates the concept of reversible redox activity and electronic conductivity in MOFs by accommodating the ligand's noncoordinating redox center through composition and SBU design.

Macrocycle-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks with NO2-Driven On/Off Switch of Conductivity

Conductive metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have a wide range of applications in supercapacitors, electrocatalysts, and fuel cells, while gas-driven conductive MOFs have not yet been synthesized so far. Herein, we report a gas-driven conductive MOF (A) constructed from calix[4]resorcinarene macrocycle and Co(II) cations, which shows the conductivity enhancement by about eight orders of magnitude through NO₂ adsorption. The conductivities of MOF A before and after the adsorption of NO₂ were calculated to be about 1.3 × 10^-11 and 8.4 × 10^-4 S/cm, respectively. MOF A realizes the conversion from an insulator to a conductor by adsorbing NO₂. When NO₂ is evacuated, MOF A quickly changes from a conductor back to an insulator in 42 s. In the crystal structure of NO₂-adsorbed MOF (termed as A-NO₂), NO₂ molecule connects Co(II) and uncoordinated carboxylate groups through hydrogen-bonding interactions to form a conductive pathway, greatly reducing the electron transmission distance between each two metal clusters. In addition, NO₂ molecule and H₃O⁺ may also form a conductive pathway by hydrogen-bonding interactions. This work presents an interesting macrocycle-based MOF with a NO₂-driven on/off conductivity switch, proving the possibility for designing advanced gas-driven conductive systems.

Thermo- and photoinduced spin state switching in an iron(II) 2D coordination network associated with large light-induced thermal hysteresis and tuning of dimensionality via ligand modulation

Three iron(ii) complexes, [Fe(L1)2(NCS)2(MeOH)2] (1), [Fe(L1)2(NCSe)2(MeOH)2] (2), and [Fe(L2)2(NCS)2]n (3) (L1 = 2,5-dipyridyl-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene and L2 = 2,5-diethynylpyridinyl-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), have been synthesized using redox-active luminescent ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT)-based ligands, and characterized by variable temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction, (photo)magnetic, optical reflectivity, and spectroscopy studies. Magneto-structural investigations revealed that 1 and 2 are mononuclear with a FeN4O2 octahedral coordination geometry and remain in a high-spin (HS) (S = 2) state in a temperature range of 2-280 K. Interestingly, a 2D coordination network structure with FeN6 surrounding each iron center was observed for 3, which exhibits reversible thermo-induced spin-state switching between the paramagnetic high-spin (HS) (S = 2) and diamagnetic low-spin (LS) (S = 0) states at around 105 K (T1/2). Furthermore, optical reflectivity and photomagnetic measurements at low temperature confirmed that 3 shows reversible ON/OFF switching between the photoinduced excited paramagnetic HS metastable state and diamagnetic LS state under light irradiation (ON mode using red light and OFF mode using green light). Finally, the photoinduced excited HS state can be reversibly relaxed back to the diamagnetic ground LS state by heating the system at ca. 88 K (TLIESST = 88 K) (light-induced excited spin state trapping (LIESST) effect). Furthermore, 3 also showed an exciting and unique 18 K wide light-induced thermal hysteresis (LITH) effect above liquid nitrogen temperature (100 K). DFT and CASSCF level theoretical calculations were utilized to better understand the magneto-structural correlations of these complexes.

Charge Transfer Metal-Organic Framework Containing Redox-Active TTF/NDI Units for Highly Efficient Near-Infrared Photothermal Conversion

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), as a class of new inorganic-organic hybrid crystal materials, could have important applications in near-infrared (NIR) photothermal conversion. Herein, a new charge-transfer MOF (Co-MOF) with mixed ligands of H₄ TTFTB and bpmNDI incorporating redox-active tetrathiafulvalene/naphthalene diimide (TTF/NDI) units into one system is reported. Due to the presence of TTF/NDI oxidative and reductive couples, stable radicals can be observed in the MOF. In addition, charge transfer from the electron donor (TTF) to the acceptor (NDI) results in a broad absorption in the NIR region. The Co-MOF exhibited an efficient photothermal effect induced by irradiation with a NIR laser. Under the 808 nm laser (0.7 W cm^-2 ) illumination, the temperature of the Co-MOF increased from room temperature to 201 °C in only 10 s. Furthermore, a series of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) films doped with trace amounts of Co-MOF showed efficient NIR photothermal conversion. When a Co-MOF@PDMS (0.6 wt %) film is irradiated by 808 nm laser with power of 0.5 W cm^-2 , it's temperature can reach a plateau at 62 °C from 20 °C within 100 s. Our experimental results from the Co-MOF@PDMS film demonstrate that the effectiveness and feasibility of the material is promising for photothermal applications.