Confinement-guided photophysics in MOFs, COFs, and cages

Encapsulation engineering of porous crystalline frameworks for delayed luminescence and circularly polarized luminescence

Delayed luminescence (DF), including phosphorescence and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF), and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) exhibit common and broad application prospects in optoelectronic displays, biological imaging, and encryption. Thus, the combination of delayed luminescence and circularly polarized luminescence is attracting increasing attention. The encapsulation of guest emitters in various host matrices to form host-guest systems has been demonstrated to be an appealing strategy to further enhance and/or modulate their delayed luminescence and circularly polarized luminescence. Compared with conventional liquid crystals, polymers, and supramolecular matrices, porous crystalline frameworks (PCFs) including metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent-organic frameworks (COFs), zeolites and hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) can not only overcome shortcomings such as flexibility and disorder but also achieve the ordered encapsulation of guests and long-term stability of chiral structures, providing new promising host platforms for the development of DF and CPL. In this review, we provide a comprehensive and critical summary of the recent progress in host-guest photochemistry via the encapsulation engineering of guest emitters in PCFs, particularly focusing on delayed luminescence and circularly polarized luminescence. Initially, the general principle of phosphorescence, TADF and CPL, the combination of DF and CPL, and energy transfer processes between host and guests are introduced. Subsequently, we comprehensively discuss the critical factors affecting the encapsulation engineering of guest emitters in PCFs, such as pore structures, the confinement effect, charge and energy transfer between the host and guest, conformational dynamics, and aggregation model of guest emitters. Thereafter, we summarize the effective methods for the preparation of host-guest systems, especially single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SC-SC) transformation and epitaxial growth, which are distinct from conventional methods based on amorphous materials. Then, the recent advancements in host-guest systems based on PCFs for delayed luminescence and circularly polarized luminescence are highlighted. Finally, we present our personal insights into the challenges and future opportunities in this promising field.

Polarity profiling of porous architectures: solvatochromic dye encapsulation in metal-organic frameworks

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have gathered significant interest due to their tunable porosity leading to diverse potential applications. In this study, we investigate the incorporation of the fluorosolvatochromic dye 2-butyl-5,6-dimethoxyisoindoline-1,3-dione ([double bond, length as m-dash]Phth) into various MOF structures as a means to assess the polarity of these porous materials. As a purely inorganic compound, zeolite Y was tested for comparison. The fluorosolvatochromic behavior of Phth, which manifests as changes in its emission spectra in response to solvent polarity, provides a sensitive probe for characterizing the local environment within the MOF pores. Through systematic variation of the MOF frameworks, we demonstrate the feasibility of using (fluoro-)solvatochromic dyes as probes for assessing the polarity gradients within MOF structures. Additionally, the fluorosolvatochromic response was studied as a function of loading amount. Our findings not only offer insights into the interplay between MOF architecture and guest molecule interactions but also present a promising approach for the rational design and classification of porous materials based on their polarity properties.

NIR-II Conjugated Electrolytes as Biomimetics of Lipid Bilayers for In Vivo Liposome Tracking

Liposomes serve as promising and versatile vehicles for drug delivery. Tracking these nanosized vesicles, particularly in vivo, is crucial for understanding their pharmacokinetics. This study introduces the design and synthesis of three new conjugated electrolyte (CE) molecules, which emit in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II), facilitating deeper tissue penetration. Additionally, these CEs, acting as biomimetics of lipid bilayers, demonstrate superior compatibility with lipid membranes compared to commonly used carbocyanine dyes like DiR. To counteract the aggregation-caused quenching effect, CEs employ a twisted backbone, as such their fluorescence intensities can effectively enhance after a fluorophore multimerization strategy. Notably, a "passive" method was employed to integrate CEs into liposomes during the liposome formation, and membrane incorporation efficiency was significantly promoted to nearly 100%. To validate the in vivo tracking capability, the CE-containing liposomes were functionalized with cyclic arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (cRGD) peptides, serving as tumor-targeting ligands. Clear fluorescent images visualizing tumor site in living mice were captured by collecting the NIR-II emission. Uniquely, these CEs exhibit additional emission peak in visible region, enabling in vitro subcellular analysis using routine confocal microscopy. These results underscore the potential of CEs as a new-generation of membrane-targeting probes to facilitate the liposome-based medicine research.

Unlocking Diabetic Acetone Vapor Detection by A Portable Metal-Organic Framework-Based Turn-On Optical Sensor Device

Despite exhaled human breath having enabled noninvasive diabetes diagnosis, selective acetone vapor detection by fluorescence approach in the diabetic range (1.8-3.5 ppm) remains a long-standing challenge. A set of water-resistant luminescent metal-organic framework (MOF)-based composites have been reported for detecting acetone vapor in the diabetic range with a limit of detection of 200 ppb. The luminescent materials possess the ability to selectively detect acetone vapor from a mixture comprising nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and alcohol vapor, which are prevalent in exhaled breath. It is noteworthy that this is the first luminescent MOF material capable of selectively detecting acetone vapor in the diabetic range via a turn-on mechanism. The material can be reused within a matter of minutes under ambient conditions. Industrially pertinent electrospun luminescent fibers are likewise fabricated alongside various luminescent films for selective detection of ultratrace quantities of acetone vapor present in the air. Ab initio theoretical calculations combined with in situ synchrotron-based dosing studies uncovered the material's remarkable hypersensitivity toward acetone vapor. Finally, a freshly designed prototype fluorescence-based portable optical sensor is utilized as a proof-of-concept for the rapid detection of acetone vapor within the diabetic range.

Fabrication of Oriented Polycrystalline MOF Superstructures

The field of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has progressed beyond the design and exploration of powdery and single-crystalline materials. A current challenge is the fabrication of organized superstructures that can harness the directional properties of the individual constituent MOF crystals. To date, the progress in the fabrication methods of polycrystalline MOF superstructures has led to close-packed structures with defined crystalline orientation. By controlling the crystalline orientation, the MOF pore channels of the constituent crystals can be aligned along specific directions: these systems possess anisotropic properties including enhanced diffusion along specific directions, preferential orientation of guest species, and protection of functional guests. In this perspective, we discuss the current status of MOF research in the fabrication of oriented polycrystalline superstructures focusing on the specific crystalline directions of orientation. Three methods are examined in detail: the assembly from colloidal MOF solutions, the use of external fields for the alignment of MOF particles, and the heteroepitaxial ceramic-to-MOF growth. This perspective aims at promoting the progress of this field of research and inspiring the development of new protocols for the preparation of MOF systems with oriented pore channels, to enable advanced MOF-based devices with anisotropic properties.

Covalent organic framework functionalized smart membranes with under-liquid dual superlyophobicity for efficient separation of oil/water emulsions

The smart membrane with under-liquid dual superlyophobicity, which can achieve on-demand separation of oil/water emulsions only by simple liquid pre-wetting, is of essential value for the treatment of complicated real oil/water systems. Here, we first fabricated a stable suspension of imine-linked covalent organic framework nanospheres (TPB-DMTP-COF), and subsequently fabricated COF functionalized smart membranes with under-liquid dual superlyophobicity by immersing polyacrylonitrile-based (PAN-based) membranes into TPB-DMTP-COF nanosphere suspension. Accordingly, effective switchable separation of both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions by TPB-DMTP-COF/PAN membranes can be achieved by employing pre-wetting processes (both the oil contact angle under water and the water contact angle under oil are over 150°). Specifically, the separation flux and the separation efficiency are higher than 1200 L/m2‧h and 98.0 %, and 2100 L/m2‧h and 97.4 % for the surfactant-stabilized oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions, respectively. Furthermore, the ultralow adhesions in liquid contributed to the outstanding reusability and antifouling resistance of the prepared TPB-DMTP-COF/PAN membranes. This work provides a feasible approach for fabricating a smart membrane with under-liquid dual superlyophobicity for oily wastewater treatment.

Kinetic Trapping of Photoluminescent Frameworks During High-Concentration Synthesis of Non-Emissive Metal-Organic Frameworks

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous, crystalline materials constructed from organic linkers and inorganic nodes with potential utility in gas separations, drug delivery, sensing, and catalysis. Small variations in MOF synthesis conditions can lead to a range of accessible frameworks with divergent chemical or photophysical properties. New methods to controllably access phases with tailored properties would broaden the scope of MOFs that can be reliably prepared for specific applications. Herein, we demonstrate that simply increasing the reaction concentration during the solvothermal synthesis of M2(dobdc) (M = Mg, Mn, Ni; dobdc4- = 2,5-dioxido-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) MOFs unexpectedly leads to trapping of a new framework termed CORN-MOF-1 (CORN = Cornell University) instead. In-depth spectroscopic, crystallographic, and computational studies support that CORN-MOF-1 has a similar structure to M2(dobdc) but with partially protonated linkers and charge-balancing or coordinated formate groups in the pores. The resultant variation in linker spacings causes CORN-MOF-1 (Mg) to be strongly photoluminescent in the solid state, whereas H4dobdc and Mg2(dobdc) are weakly emissive due to excimer formation. In-depth photophysical studies suggest that CORN-MOF-1 (Mg) is the first MOF based on the H2dobdc2- linker that likely does not emit via an excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) pathway. In addition, CORN-MOF-1 variants can be converted into high-quality samples of the thermodynamic M2(dobdc) phases by heating in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). Overall, our findings support that high-concentration synthesis provides a straightforward method to identify new MOFs with properties distinct from known materials and to produce highly porous samples of MOFs, paving the way for the discovery and gram-scale synthesis of framework materials.

Pore-Confined π-Chromophoric Tetracene as a Visible Light Harvester toward MOF-Based Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction in Water

Integrating photoactive π-chromophoric guest molecules inside the MOF nanopore can result in the emergence of light-responsive features, which in turn can be utilized for developing photoactive materials with inherent properties of MOF. Herein, we report the confining of π-chromophoric tetracene (TET) molecules inside the nanospace of postmodified Zr-MOF-808 (Zr-MOF) with MBA molecules (MBA = 2-(5'-methyl-[2,2'-bipyridine]-5-yl)acetic acid) for effectively utilizing its light-harvesting properties toward photocatalytic CO2 reduction. The confinement of the TET molecules as a photosensitizer and the covalent grafting of a catalytically active [Re(MBA)(CO)3Cl] complex, postsynthetically, result in a single integrated catalytic system named Zr-MBA-TET-Re-MOF. Photoreduction of CO2 over Zr-MBA-TET-Re-MOF showed the evolution of 805 μmol g-1 CO with 99.9% selectivity after 10 h of continuous visible light irradiation in water without any additional sacrificial electron donor and having the apparent quantum efficiency of 1.3%. In addition, the catalyst demonstrated an appreciable activity even under direct sunlight irradiation in aqueous medium with a maximum production of 362.7 μmol g-1 CO, thereby mimicking artificial photosynthesis. Moreover, electron transfer from TET to the catalytic center was supported by the formation of photoinduced TET radical cation, as inferred from in situ UV-vis spectra, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis, and transient absorption (TA) studies. Additionally, the in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) measurements support that the photoreduction of CO2 to CO proceeds via *COOH intermediate formation. The close proximity of the light-harvesting molecule and catalytic center facilitated facile electron transfer from the photosensitizer to the catalyst during the CO2 reduction.

Fluorescent and Catalytic Properties of a 2D Lamellar Zn Metal-Organic Framework with sql Network Structure

A two-dimensional (2D) lamellar Zn metal-organic framework (Zn-MOF, 1) with a fluorescent 1,6-di(pyridin-3-yl)pyrene (3-DPPy) and 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate (BDC2-) bridging linkers was prepared and structurally characterized. The chemical formula of 1 is [Zn(μ-3-DPPy)(μ-BDC)]n. The mononuclear Zn(II) ion, acting as a node, is tetrahedrally coordinated with two 3-DPPy and two BDC linkers. The coordination environment of Zn(II) is a distorted tetrahedral geometry. The Zn-MOF is the sql network structure based on topology analysis. The undulated 2D sheets of 1 tightly pack together to form a lamellar structure. The pyrene moieties are parallelly oriented to each other. The Zn-MOF is not porous, possibly because the mononuclear Zn(II) node did not form cluster-based secondary building units due to the less symmetric 3-DPPy. The steady-state fluorescence measurements indicate that the fluorescence signal of the 1 is slightly blue-shifted compared to the free 3-DPPy in the solid state. The excimer emission band at 463 nm for crystalline 3-DPPy is shifted to 447 nm for 1. The value of 447 nm is also a blue-shift value compared to nonsubstituted pyrene crystals (470 nm). Despite its nonporosity, the surface Lewis acidic sites of 1 could catalyze the transesterification of esters. Surface defect sites are responsible for this catalytic activity.

Thermal Conductivity of Covalent-Organic Frameworks

Covalent-organic frameworks (COFs) are a highly promising class of materials that can provide an excellent platform for thermal management applications. In this Perspective, we first review previous works on the thermal conductivities of COFs. Then we share our insights on achieving high, low, and switchable thermal conductivities of future COFs. To obtain the desired thermal conductivity, a comprehensive understanding of their thermal transport mechanisms is necessary but lacking. We discuss current limitations in atomistic simulations, synthesis, and thermal conductivity measurements of COFs and share potential pathways to overcoming these challenges. We hope to stimulate collective, interdisciplinary efforts to study the thermal conductivity of COFs and enable their wide range of thermal applications.

Mechanochemistry toward Organic "Salt" via Integer-Charge-Transfer Cocrystal Strategy for Rapid, Efficient, and Scalable Near-Infrared Photothermal Conversion

Inspired by the concept of ionic charge-transfer complexes for the Mott insulator, integer-charge-transfer (integer-CT) cocrystals are designed for NIR photo-thermal conversion (PTC). With amino-styryl-pyridinium dyes and F4TCNQ (7,7',8,8'-Tetracyano-2,3,5,6-tetrafluoroquinodimethane) serving as donor/acceptor (D/A) units, integer-CT cocrystals, including amorphous stacking "salt" and segregated stacking "ionic crystal", are synthesized by mechanochemistry and solution method, respectively. Surprisingly, the integer-CT cocrystals are self-assembled only through multiple D-A hydrogen bonds (C-H⋅⋅⋅X (X=N, F)). Strong charge-transfer interactions in cocrystals contribute to the strong light-harvesting ability at 200-1500 nm. Under 808 nm laser illumination, both the "salt" and "ionic crystal" display excellent PTC efficiency beneficial from ultrafast (∼2 ps) nonradiative decay of excited states. Thus integer-CT cocrystals are potential candidates for rapid, efficient, and scalable PTC platforms. Especially amorphous "salt" with good photo/thermal stability is highly desirable in practical large-scale solar-harvesting/conversion applications in water environment. This work verifies the validity of the integer-CT cocrystal strategy, and charts a promising path to synthesize amorphous PTC materials by mechanochemical method in one-step.

Post-synthetic modification of covalent organic frameworks for CO2 electroreduction

To achieve high-efficiency catalysts for CO₂ reduction reaction, various catalytic metal centres and linker molecules have been assembled into covalent organic frameworks. The amine-linkages enhance the binding ability of CO₂ molecules, and the ionic frameworks enable to improve the electronic conductivity and the charge transfer along the frameworks. However, directly synthesis of covalent organic frameworks with amine-linkages and ionic frameworks is hardly achieved due to the electrostatic repulsion and predicament for the strength of the linkage. Herein, we demonstrate covalent organic frameworks for CO₂ reduction reaction by modulating the linkers and linkages of the template covalent organic framework to build the correlation between the catalytic performance and the structures of covalent organic frameworks. Through the double modifications, the CO₂ binding ability and the electronic states are well tuned, resulting in controllable activity and selectivity for CO₂ reduction reaction. Notably, the dual-functional covalent organic framework achieves high selectivity with a maximum CO Faradaic efficiency of 97.32% and the turnover frequencies value of 9922.68 h^-1, which are higher than those of the base covalent organic framework and the single-modified covalent organic frameworks. Moreover, the theoretical calculations further reveal that the higher activity is attributed to the easier formation of immediate *CO from COOH*. This study provides insights into developing covalent organic frameworks for CO₂ reduction reaction.

Fluorescence Amplification of Unsaturated Oxazolones Using Palladium: Photophysical and Computational Studies

Weakly fluorescent (Z)-4-arylidene-5-(4H)-oxazolones (1), Φ_PL < 0.1%, containing a variety of conjugated aromatic fragments and/or charged arylidene moieties, have been orthopalladated by reaction with Pd(OAc)₂. The resulting dinuclear complexes (2) have the oxazolone ligands bonded as a C^N-chelate, restricting intramolecular motions involving the oxazolone. From 2, a variety of mononuclear derivatives, such as [Pd(C^N-oxazolone)(O₂CCF₃)(py)] (3), [Pd(C^N-oxazolone)(py)₂](ClO₄) (4), [Pd(C^N-oxazolone)(Cl)(py)] (5), and [Pd(C^N-oxazolone)(X)(NHC)] (6, 7), have been prepared and fully characterized. Most of complexes 3-6 are strongly fluorescent in solution in the range of wavelengths from green to yellow, with values of Φ_PL up to 28% (4h), which are among the highest values of quantum yield ever reported for organometallic Pd complexes with bidentate ligands. This means that the introduction of the Pd in the oxazolone scaffold produces in some cases an amplification of the fluorescence of several orders of magnitude from the free ligand 1 to complexes 3-6. Systematic variations of the substituents of the oxazolones and the ancillary ligands show that the wavelength of emission is tuned by the nature of the oxazolone, while the quantum yield is deeply influenced by the change of ligands. TD-DFT studies of complexes 3-6 show a direct correlation between the participation of the Pd orbitals in the HOMO and the loss of emission through non-radiative pathways. This model allows the understanding of the amplification of the fluorescence and the future rational design of new organopalladium systems with improved properties.

Photoresponsive Supramolecular Polymers: From Light-Controlled Small Molecules to Smart Materials

Photoresponsive supramolecular polymers are well-organized assemblies based on highly oriented and reversible noncovalent interactions containing photosensitive molecules as (co-)monomers. They have attracted increasing interest in smart materials and dynamic systems with precisely controllable functions, such as light-driven soft actuators, photoresponsive fluorescent anticounterfeiting and light-triggered electronic devices. The present review discusses light-activated molecules used in photoresponsive supramolecular polymers with their main photo-induced changes, e.g., geometry, dipole moment, and chirality. Based on these distinct changes, supramolecular polymers formed by light-activated molecules exhibit photoresponsive disassembly and reassembly. As a consequence, photo-induced supramolecular polymerization, "depolymerization," and regulation of the lengths and topologies are observed. Moreover, the light-controlled functions of supramolecular polymers, such as actuation, emission, and chirality transfer along length scales, are highlighted. Furthermore, a perspective on challenges and future opportunities is presented. Besides the challenge of moving from harmful UV light to visible/near IR light avoiding fatigue, and enabling biomedical applications, future opportunities include light-controlled supramolecular actuators with helical motion, light-modulated information transmission, optically recyclable materials, and multi-stimuli-responsive supramolecular systems.

Detection Enhancement of One Multifunctional Cd-Metal-Organic Framework toward Tetracycline Antibiotics by Simply Mixing Eu3+ in Suspension

It is necessary to find more simple methods to improve the detection selectivity and sensitivity of antibiotics. Herein, we constructed a novel three-dimensional (3D) Cd-MOF LCU-117 assembled from p-terphenyl-4,2″,5″,4'-tetracarboxylic acid, which showed a special 3D helical structure with carboxylic acid ligands and nitrogen-containing ligands crossing each other vertically. Luminescence measurements indicated that LCU-117 has high selectivity and sensitivity toward Eu³⁺ through the ratiometric effect. Meanwhile, this complex itself could detect antibiotics oxytetracycline (OTC) through the turn-off mechanism. When Eu³⁺ was added in suspensions of LCU-117 (noted as Eu³⁺@LCU-117), the detection toward OTC was enhanced significantly and visually. The sensing mechanism was investigated in detail by various measurements and theoretical calculations. LCU-117 has a good effect on the logic gate, potential fingerprint detection, and mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs). The practical application for monitoring OTC in water samples also provided a satisfactory result.

Energy Transport in Dichroic Metallo-organic Crystals: Selective Inclusion of Spatially Resolved Arrays of Donor and Acceptor Dyes in Different Nanochannels

In this study, the precise positioning and alignment of arrays of two different guest molecules in a crystalline host matrix has been engineered and resulted in new optically active materials. Sub-nm differences in the diameters of two types of 1D channels are sufficient for size-selective inclusion of dyes. Energy transport occurs between the arrays of different dyes that are included in parallel-positioned nanochannels by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). The color of individual micro-sized crystals are dependent on their relative position under polarized light. This angular-dependent behavior is a result of the geometrically constrained orientation of the dyes by the crystallographic packing of the host matrix and is concentration dependent.

Enhancing Dynamic Spectral Diffusion in Metal-Organic Frameworks through Defect Engineering

The crystal packing of organic chromophores has a profound impact on their photophysical properties. Molecular crystal engineering is generally incapable of producing precisely spaced arrays of molecules for use in photovoltaics, light-emitting diodes, and sensors. A promising alternative strategy is the incorporation of chromophores into crystalline metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), leading to matrix coordination-induced emission (MCIE) upon confinement. However, it remains unclear how the precise arrangement of chromophores and defects dictates photophysical properties in these systems, limiting the rational design of well-defined photoluminescent materials. Herein, we report new, robust Zr-based MOFs constructed from the linker tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)ethylene (TCPE^4-) that exhibit an unexpected structural transition in combination with a prominent shift from green to blue photoluminescence (PL) as a function of the amount of acid modulator (benzoic, formic, or acetic acid) used during synthesis. Time-resolved PL (TRPL) measurements provide full spectral information and reveal that the observed hypsochromic shift arises due to a higher concentration of linker substitution defects at higher modulator concentrations, leading to broader excitation transfer-induced spectral diffusion. Spectral diffusion of this type has not been reported in a MOF to date, and its observation provides structural information that is otherwise unobtainable using traditional crystallographic techniques. Our findings suggest that defects have a profound impact on the photophysical properties of MOFs and that their presence can be readily tuned to modify energy transfer processes within these materials.

Confinement-Driven Photophysics in Hydrazone-Based Hierarchical Materials

Confinement-imposed photophysics was probed for novel stimuli-responsive hydrazone-based compounds demonstrating a conceptual difference in their behavior within 2D versus 3D porous matrices for the first time. The challenges associated with photoswitch isomerization arising from host interactions with photochromic compounds in 2D scaffolds could be overcome in 3D materials. Solution-like photoisomerization rate constants were realized for sterically demanding hydrazone derivatives in the solid state through their coordinative immobilization in 3D scaffolds. According to steady-state and time-resolved photophysical measurements and theoretical modeling, this approach provides access to hydrazone-based materials with fast photoisomerization kinetics in the solid state. Fast isomerization of integrated hydrazone derivatives allows for probing and tailoring resonance energy transfer (ET) processes as a function of excitation wavelength, providing a novel pathway for ET modulation.

Recent progress on MOF-based optical sensors for VOC sensing

The raising apprehension of volatile organic compound (VOC) exposures urges the exploration of advanced monitoring platforms. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) provide many attractive features including tailorable porosity, high surface areas, good chemical/thermal stability, and various host-guest interactions, making them appealing candidates for VOC capture and sensing. To comprehensively exploit the potential of MOFs as sensing materials, great efforts have been dedicated to the shaping and patterning of MOFs for next-level device integration. Among different types of sensors (chemiresistive sensors, gravimetric sensors, optical sensors, etc.), MOFs coupled with optical sensors feature distinctive strength. This review summarized the latest advancements in MOF-based optical sensors with a particular focus on VOC sensing. The subject is discussed by different mechanisms: colorimetry, luminescence, and sensors based on optical index modulations. Critical analysis for each system highlighting practical aspects was also deliberated.

Construction of Atomic Metal-N2 Sites by Interlayers of Covalent Organic Frameworks for Electrochemical H2 O2 Synthesis

Electrosynthesis of H₂ O₂ is a promising alternative to the anthraquinone oxidation process because of its low energy utilization and cost-effectiveness. Heteroatom-doped carbons-based catalysts have been widely developed for H₂ O₂ synthesis. However, their doping degree, defective degree, and location of active sites are difficult to be preciously controlled at molecular level. Herein, a dioxin-linked covalent organic framework (COF) is used as the template to preciously construct different metal-N₂ sites along the porous walls for H₂ O₂ synthesis. By tuning the metal centers, the catalyst with Ca-N₂ sites enables to catalyze H₂ O₂ production with selectivity over 95% from 0.2 to 0.6 V versus RHE, while the H₂ O₂ yields for Co sites or Ni sites are 20% and 60% in the same potential range. In addition, the turnover frequency (TOF) values for Ca-N₂ sites are 11.63 e^-1 site^-1 s^-1 , which are 58 and 20 times higher than those of Co and Ni sites (0.20 and 0.57 e^-1 site^-1 s^-1 ). The theoretical calculations further reveal that the OOH* desorption on Ca sites is easier than those on Co or Ni sites, and thus catalyzes the oxygen reduction reaction in the 2e^- pathway with high efficiency.

Light-Responsive Solid-Solid Phase Change Materials for Photon and Thermal Energy Storage

We report a series of adamantane-functionalized azobenzenes that store photon and thermal energy via reversible photoisomerization in the solid state for molecular solar thermal (MOST) energy storage. The adamantane unit serves as a 3D molecular separator that enables the spatial separation of azobenzene groups and results in their facile switching even in the crystalline phase. Upon isomerization, the phase transition from crystalline to amorphous solid occurs and contributes to additional energy storage. The exclusively solid-state MOST compounds with solid-solid phase transition overcome a major challenge of solid-liquid phase transition materials that require encapsulation for practical applications.

Progress in Hybridization of Covalent Organic Frameworks and Metal-Organic Frameworks

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) hybrid materials are a class of porous crystalline materials that integrate MOFs and COFs with hierarchical pore structures. As an emerging porous frame material platform, MOF/COF hybrid materials have attracted tremendous attention, and the field is advancing rapidly and extending into more diverse fields. Extensive studies have shown that a broad variety of MOF/COF hybrid materials with different structures and specific properties can be synthesized from diverse building blocks via different chemical reactions, driving the rapid growth of the field. The allowed complementary utilization of π-conjugated skeletons and nanopores for functional exploration has endowed these hybrid materials with great potential in challenging energy and environmental issues. It is necessary to prepare a "family tree" to accurately trace the developments in the study of MOF/COF hybrid materials. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest achievements and advancements in the design and synthesis of MOF/COF hybrid materials, including COFs covalently bonded to the surface functional groups of MOFs (MOF@COF), MOFs grown on the surface of COFs (COF@MOF), bridge reaction between COF and MOF (MOF+COF), and their various applications in catalysis, energy storage, pollutant adsorption, gas separation, chemical sensing, and biomedicine. It concludes with remarks concerning the trend from the structural design to functional exploration and potential applications of MOF/COF hybrid materials.

Photophysical comparison of Zn(II) phthalocyanaine tetrasulfonate and Zn(II) tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin encapsulated within the Zn-polyhedral metal organic framework, HKUST-1(Zn)

Porphyrins and phthalocyanines are ideal candidates for the development of photoactive porous metal organic frameworks (MOFs) due to their broad absorption spectra in the visible and near UV regions, high molar extinction coefficients and long triplet state lifetimes. An important factor in the development of porphyrin/phthalocyanine based MOFs is the extent to which the pore modulates the photophysical properties of the guest. Here, two structurally related guests, Zn(II)tetra(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin (Zn4SP) and Zn(II)phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate (ZnPcS4) have been encapsulated within the pores of the MOF HKUST-1(Zn). Both the ZnPcS4@HKUST-1(Zn) and Zn4SP@HKUST-1(Zn) display bathochromic shifts in the Soret absorption band and steady state emission spectra as well as biphasic emissions lifetimes, relative to the chromophores in solution. These results are consistent with the pore modulating the excited state conformations of both chromophores. Interestingly, rotational control of the phenyl groups associated with Zn4SP@HKUST-1(Zn) appears to have a moderate impact on the photophysics.

Tracking the Oxygen Dynamics of Solid-Liquid Electrochemical Interfaces by Correlative In Situ Synchrotron Spectroscopies

ConspectusOxygen-involved electrocatalytic processes, including the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), are central to a series of advanced modern energy and conversion technologies, such as water electrolyzers, fuel cells, and CO₂ reduction or N₂ fixation devices. A comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the charge transfer and energy conversion process that ubiquitously occurs over solid-liquid electrochemical interfaces during oxygen electrocatalysis is crucial for understanding the key essence of oxygen-related electrochemistry. The huge challenges for dynamic studies over solid-liquid interfaces during oxygen electrocatalysis lie in the all-embracing electrochemical processes of the catalytic reactions, associated with both structural and reactive intermediates evolution on the electrode surface, and in the significant influence of the aqueous environments of electrolytes used. Hence, overcoming these challenges intrinsically calls for a great cooperation of multiple cutting-edge in situ technologies. Synchrotron radiation (SR) X-ray absorption fine structure (SR-XAFS) spectroscopy is highly sensitive to the local atomic structure of nanomaterials, and SR-based Fourier transform infrared (SR-FTIR) spectroscopy features unique molecular fingerprint identification to determine active species on the surface of electrodes. One can imagine that the correlative in situ SR-XAFS/FTIR spectroscopic investigations will potentially provide sufficient, reliable, and complementary information at the atomic/molecular level to depict vivid and comprehensive "dynamic movies" of solid-liquid electrochemical interfaces during oxygen electrocatalysis, which will help effectively promote/simplify the complicated screening process of advanced oxygen electrocatalysts for efficient high-energy-density energy systems.In this Account, starting with some fundamentals of SR-based spectroscopic technologies, tips for obtaining high-quality SR-XAFS and SR-FTIR spectroscopy results during the electrocatalytic process are comprehensively specified. Subsequently, the latest research achievements of dynamic investigations mainly from our group based on in situ SR-XAFS and/or SR-FTIR spectroscopies will be systematically scrutinized and properly emphasized in detail, where the currently attractive metal-organic-framework (MOF) nanomaterials and single-atom catalysts (SACs) are selected as the main object of research. Moreover, the vital contributions of correlative in situ SR-XAFS/FTIR studies on new discoveries of the dynamic evolution of solid-liquid interfaces during oxygen electrocatalysis are highlighted. In particular, our pioneering research found that the potential-dependent dynamically coupled oxygen formed in the precatalytic stage was a very useful promoter in SACs to promote efficient OER kinetics under acidic conditions. In addition, the in situ generated metastable Ni₁-N₂ centers with more structural degrees of freedom in SACs could potentially facilitate the fast 4e^- ORR kinetics. This Account is anticipated to stimulate broad interest in dynamic explorations in various catalytic processes of interest in the material science and electrochemistry communities using correlative SR-based technologies.

Design and Multiple Applications of Mixed-Ligand Metal-Organic Frameworks with Dual Emission

Herein, we revealed the factors that affect the emission in mixed-ligand metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with the combination of terephthalic acid (BDC), 2-aminoterephthalic acid (BDC-NH₂), and 2,5-dihydroxylterephthalic acid [BDC-(OH)₂] as models. The -NH₂ and -(OH)₂ groups change the π-conjugation and luminescence behaviors than BDC, so the ligands show different optical behaviors. The Zn²⁺ ion with a 3d¹⁰ full electronic structure shows little effect on the emission of the ligand and is selected as the metal node. We found that the emission of BDC is weak and incompatible to that of BDC-NH₂, so only the emission of BDC-NH₂ was observed in the BDC/BDC-NH₂-MOF. Crosstalk occurs between the emissions from BDC and BDC-(OH)₂ for the single emission from BDC/BDC-(OH)₂-MOFs, even different ratios are selected. The MOFs prepared with BDC-NH₂ and BDC-(OH)₂ show dual emission at 450 and 550 nm, while the relative intensity was easily tuned with the ligand ratio and excitation wavelength. Thus, abundant optical behaviors and extensive applications were realized, including but not limited to (1) dual emission from single MOFs, (2) tunable color from blue to yellow with the excitation from 290 to 370 nm for information encryption and decryption, (3) white emission obtained under an excitation of 330 nm, and (4) response of -NH₂ groups to HCHO and Fe³⁺ ions for ratiometric fluorescence sensing and visual detection. This work revealed the factors that affect the emission in mixed-ligand MOFs, studied their optical behaviors, and realized different applications with single MOFs.

Luminescent MOFs (LMOFs): Recent Advancement Towards a Greener WLED Technology

The replacement of the traditional incandescent, halogen and fluorescent lamps by white light emitting diodes (WLEDs) is expected to reduce the global electricity consumption by one-third by 2030, according to...

Designing Coordination Polymers as Multi-drug-self-delivery System for Tuberculosis and Cancer Therapy: in vitro Viability and in vivo Toxicity Assessment

A proof of the concept for designing multi-drug-delivery system suitable for self-drug-delivery is disclosed. Simple coordination chemistry was employed to anchor two kinds of drugs namely isoniazid (IZ – anti-tuberculosis),...

Photoinduced host-to-guest electron transfer in a self-assembled coordination cage

Light–powered host–guest charge transfer (HGCT) is shown for a coordination cage based on electron-rich phenothiazines, containing an anthraquinone acceptor as guest. Transient absorption spectroscopy and spectroelectrochemistry data is presented.

Dramatic Emission Enhancement of Aggregation-Induced Emission Luminogens by Dynamic Metal Coordination Bonds and Anti-Heavy-Atom Effect

Restriction of intramolecular motions of AIEgens is greatly intensified by introducing dynamic metal coordination bonds to achieve dramatic fluorescence enhancement, which provides a simple and effective way to dramatically improve...

Topology- and wavelength-governed CO2 reduction photocatalysis in molecular catalyst-metal–organic framework assemblies

Optimising catalyst materials for visible light-driven fuel production requires understanding complex and intertwined processes including light absorption and catalyst stability, as well as mass, charge, and energy transport. These phenomena can be uniquely combined (and ideally controlled) in porous host–guest systems. Towards this goal we designed model systems consisting of molecular complexes as catalysts and porphyrin metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as light-harvesting and hosting porous matrices. Two MOF-rhenium molecule hybrids with identical building units but differing topologies (PCN-222 and PCN-224) were prepared including photosensitiser-catalyst dyad-like systems integrated via self-assembled molecular recognition. This allowed us to investigate the impact of MOF topology on solar fuel production, with PCN-222 assemblies yielding a 9-fold turnover number enhancement for solar CO₂-to-CO reduction over PCN-224 hybrids as well as a 10-fold increase compared to the homogeneous catalyst-porphyrin dyad. Catalytic, spectroscopic and computational investigations identified larger pores and efficient exciton hopping as performance boosters, and further unveiled a MOF-specific, wavelength-dependent catalytic behaviour. Accordingly, CO₂ reduction product selectivity is governed by selective activation of two independent, circumscribed or delocalised, energy/electron transfer channels from the porphyrin excited state to either formate-producing MOF nodes or the CO-producing molecular catalysts.

Two MOF molecular catalyst hybrids with differing topologies show mass and light transport governed photocatalysis. MOF-specific, irradiation wavelength-dependent product control is unlocked by switching between two energy/electron transfer channels.

A cationic thorium-organic framework with triple single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation peculiarities for ultrasensitive anion recognition

Single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation of metal-organic frameworks has been met with great interest, as it allows for the creation of new materials in a stepwise manner and direct visualization of structural transitions when subjected to external stimuli. However, it remains a peculiarity among numerous metal-organic frameworks, particularly for the ones constructed from tetravalent metal cations. Herein, we present a cationic thorium-organic framework displaying unprecedented triple single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformations in organic solvents, water, and NaIO3 solution. Notably, both the interpenetration conversion and topological change driven by the SC-SC transformation have remained elusive for thorium-organic frameworks. Moreover, the single-crystal-to-single-crystal transition in NaIO3 solution can efficiently and selectively turn the ligand-based emission off, leading to the lowest limit of detection (0.107 μg kg-1) of iodate, one of the primary species of long-lived fission product 129I in aqueous medium, among all luminescent sensors.

In situ activation of Br-confined Ni-based metal-organic framework hollow prisms toward efficient electrochemical oxygen evolution

Fundamental insights into the structural evolution of oxygen electrocatalysts under operating conditions are of substantial importance for designing efficient catalysts. Here, on the basis of operando x-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, we probe the in situ activation of Br-confined conductive Ni-based metal-organic framework (Br-Ni-MOF) hollow prisms toward an active oxygen electrocatalyst during the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) process. The successive structural transformations from pristine Br-Ni-MOF to a β-Ni(OH)₂ analog then subsequently to a γ-NiOOH phase during OER are observed. This post-formed γ-NiOOH analog manifests high OER performance with a superior overpotential of 306 mV at 10 mA cm⁻² and a high turnover frequency value of 0.051 s⁻¹ at an overpotential of 300 mV, making Br-Ni-MOF one of the most active oxygen electrocatalysts reported. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the strong electronic coupling between Br and Ni atoms accelerates the generation of the key *O intermediate toward fast OER kinetics.

Chemically Stable Carbazole-Based Imine Covalent Organic Frameworks with Acidochromic Response for Humidity Control Applications

Isoreticular chemically stable two-dimensional imine covalent organic frameworks (COFs), further denoted as DUT-175 and DUT-176, are obtained in a reaction of 4,4′-bis(9H-carbazol-9-yl)biphenyl tetraaldehyde with phenyldiamine and benzidine. The crystal structures, solved and refined from the powder X-ray diffraction data and confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, indicate AA-stacked layer structures. Both structures feature distorted hexagonal channel pores, assuring remarkable porosity (S_BET = 1071 m² g^–1 for DUT-175 and S_BET = 1062 m² g^–1 for DUT-176), as confirmed by adsorption of gases and vapors. The complex conjugated π system of the COFs involves electron-rich carbazole building units, which in combination with the imine groups allow reversible pH-dependent protonation of the frameworks, accompanied by charge transfer and shift of the absorption bands in the UV–vis spectrum. The sigmoidal shape of the water vapor adsorption and desorption isotherms with a steep adsorption step at p/p₀ = 0.4–0.6 in combination with excellent stability over dozens of adsorption and desorption cycles ranks these COFs among the best materials for indoor humidity control applications.

Unveiling the Unique Roles of Metal Coordination and Modulator in the Polymorphism Control of Metal-Organic Frameworks

Polymorphism control of metal-organic frameworks is highly desired for elucidating structure-property relationships, but remains an empirical process and is usually done in a trial-and-error approach. We adopted the rarely used actinide cation Th⁴⁺ and a ditopic linker to construct a series of thorium-organic frameworks (TOFs) with a range of polymorphs. The extraordinary coordination versatility of Th⁴⁺ cations and clusters, coupled with synthetic modulation, gives five distinct phases, wherein the highest degree of interpenetration (threefold) and porosity (75.9 %) of TOFs have been achieved. Notably, the O atom on the capping site of the nine-coordinated Th⁴⁺ cation can function as a bridging unit to interconnect neighboring secondary building units (SBUs), affording topologies that are undocumented for other tetravalent-metal-containing MOFs. Furthermore, for the first time HCOOH has been demonstrated as a bridging unit of SBUs to further induce structural complexity. The resulting TOFs exhibit considerably different adsorption behaviors toward organic dyes, thus suggesting that TOFs represent an exceptional and promising platform for structure-property relationship study.

Photophysics of Azobenzene Constrained in a UiO Metal-Organic Framework: Effects of Pressure, Solvation and Dynamic Disorder

Photophysical studies of chromophoric linkers in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are undertaken commonly in the context of sensing applications, in search of readily observable changes of optical properties in response to external stimuli. The advantages of the MOF construct as a platform for investigating fundamental photophysical behaviour have been somewhat overlooked. The linker framework offers a unique environment in which the chromophore is geometrically constrained and its structure can be determined crystallographically, but it exists in spatial isolation, unperturbed by inter‐chromophore interactions. Furthermore, high‐pressure studies enable the photophysical consequences of controlled, incremental changes in local environment or conformation to be observed and correlated with structural data. This approach is demonstrated in the present study of the trans‐azobenzene chromophore, constrained in the form of the 4,4’‐azobenzenedicarboxylate (abdc) linker, in a UiO topology framework. Previously unobserved effects of pressure‐induced solvation and conformational distortion on the lowest energy, nπ* transition are reported, and interpreted the light of crystallographic data. It was found that trans‐azobenzene remains non‐fluorescent (with a quantum yield less than 10⁻⁴) despite the prevention of trans‐cis isomerization by the constraining MOF structure. We propose that efficient non‐radiative decay is mediated by the local, pedal‐like twisting of the azo group that is evident as dynamic disorder in the crystal structure.

The Synthesis and Properties of TIPA-Dominated Porous Metal-Organic Frameworks

Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) as a class of crystalline materials are constructed using metal nodes and organic spacers. Polydentate N-donor ligands play a mainstay-type role in the construction of metal-organic frameworks, especially cationic MOFs. Highly stable cationic MOFs with high porosity and open channels exhibit distinct advantages, they can act as a powerful ion exchange platform for the capture of toxic heavy-metal oxoanions through a Single-Crystal to Single-Crystal (SC-SC) pattern. Porous luminescent MOFs can act as nano-sized containers to encapsulate guest emitters and construct multi-emitter materials for chemical sensing. This feature article reviews the synthesis and application of porous Metal-Organic Frameworks based on tridentate ligand tris (4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl) phenyl) amine (TIPA) and focuses on design strategies for the synthesis of TIPA-dominated Metal-Organic Frameworks with high porosity and stability. The design strategies are integrated into four types: small organic molecule as auxiliaries, inorganic oxyanion as auxiliaries, small organic molecule as secondary linkers, and metal clusters as nodes. The applications of ratiometric sensing, the adsorption of oxyanions contaminants from water, and small molecule gas storage are summarized. We hope to provide experience and inspiration in the design and construction of highly porous MOFs base on polydentate N-donor ligands.

Encapsulation of Dyes in Luminescent Metal-Organic Frameworks for White Light Emitting Diodes

The development of white light emitting diodes (WLEDs) holds great promise for replacing traditional lighting devices due to high efficiency, low energy consumption and long lifetime. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with a wide range of luminescent behaviors are ideal candidates to produce white light emission in the phosphor-converted WLEDs. Encapsulation of emissive organic dyes is a simple way to obtain luminescent MOFs. In this review, we summarize the recent progress on the design and constructions of dye encapsulated luminescent MOFs phosphors. Different strategies are highlighted where white light emitting phosphors were obtained by combining fluorescent dyes with metal ions and linkers.

Molecular Dye-Sensitized Photocatalysis with Metal-Organic Framework and Metal Oxide Colloids for Fuel Production

Colloidal dye-sensitized photocatalysis is a promising route toward efficient solar fuel production by merging properties of catalysis, support, light absorption, and electron mediation in one. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are host materials with modular building principles allowing scaffold property tailoring. Herein, we combine these two fields and compare porous Zr-based MOFs UiO-66-NH2(Zr) and UiO-66(Zr) to monoclinic ZrO2 as model colloid hosts with co-immobilized molecular carbon dioxide reduction photocatalyst fac-ReBr(CO)3(4,4′-dcbpy) (dcbpy = dicarboxy-2,2′-bipyridine) and photosensitizer Ru(bpy)2(5,5′-dcbpy)Cl2 (bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine). These host-guest systems demonstrate selective CO2-to-CO reduction in acetonitrile in presence of an electron donor under visible light irradiation, with turnover numbers (TONs) increasing from ZrO2, to UiO-66, and to UiO-66-NH2 in turn. This is attributed to MOF hosts facilitating electron hopping and enhanced CO2 uptake due to their innate porosity. Both of these phenomena are pronounced for UiO-66-NH2(Zr), yielding TONs of 450 which are 2.5 times higher than under MOF-free homogeneous conditions, highlighting synergistic effects between supramolecular photosystem components in dye-sensitized MOFs.

Beyond structural motifs: the frontier of actinide-containing metal-organic frameworks

In this perspective, we feature recent advances in the field of actinide-containing metal-organic frameworks (An-MOFs) with a main focus on their electronic, catalytic, photophysical, and sorption properties. This discussion deviates from a strictly crystallographic analysis of An-MOFs, reported in several reviews, or synthesis of novel structural motifs, and instead delves into the remarkable potential of An-MOFs for evolving the nuclear waste administration sector. Currently, the An-MOF field is dominated by thorium- and uranium-containing structures, with only a few reports on transuranic frameworks. However, some of the reported properties in the field of An-MOFs foreshadow potential implementation of these materials and are the main focus of this report. Thus, this perspective intends to provide a glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and future directions of An-MOFs in sectors ranging from the traditional realm of gas sorption and separation to recently emerging areas such as electronics and photophysics.