Metal-organic framework composites as green/sustainable catalysts

TEMPO/PhI(OAc)2 promotes the α-aminophosphinoylation of alcohols with amines and H-phosphine oxides in aqueous medium

A novel method for synthesizing α-aminoalkyl phosphine oxides in aqueous medium, using Ar2P(O)-H reagents, alcohols and amines, is described. This method: (i) allows for the smooth aminophosphinoylation of alcohols with amines and H-phosphine oxides under mild conditions; (ii) provides an efficient and alternative approach to access various α-aminoalkylphosphine oxides. Although various amines exhibited remarkable versatility and tolerance for functional groups in this reaction, alcohols and H-phosphine oxides demonstrated limited applicability as reactants. Hence, further investigation using a wider range of substrates is crucial. The postulated mechanism indicated that the three-component reaction followed the imine pathway due to the in situ oxidation of alcohol to aldehyde.

MOF/graphene oxide based composites in smart supercapacitors: a comprehensive review on the electrochemical evaluation and material development for advanced energy storage devices

The surge in interest surrounding energy storage solutions, driven by the demand for electric vehicles and the global energy crisis, has spotlighted the effectiveness of carbon-based supercapacitors in meeting high-power requirements. Concurrently, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have gained attention as a template for their integration with graphene oxide (GO) in composite materials which have emerged as a promising avenue for developing high-power supercapacitors, elevating smart supercapacitor efficiency, cyclic stability, and durability, providing crucial insights for overcoming contemporary energy storage obstacles. The identified combination leverages the strengths of both materials, showcasing significant potential for advancing energy storage technologies in a sustainable and efficient manner. In this research, an in-depth review has been presented, in which properties, rationale and integration of MOF/GO composites have been critically examined. Various fabrication techniques have been thoroughly analyzed, emphasizing the specific attributes of MOFs, such as high surface area and modifiable porosity, in tandem with the conductive and stabilizing features of graphene oxide. Electrochemical characterizations and physicochemical mechanisms underlying MOF/GO composites have been examined, emphasizing their synergistic interaction, leading to superior electrical conductivity, mechanical robustness, and energy storage capacity. The article concludes by identifying future research directions, emphasizing sustainable production, material optimization, and integration strategies to address the persistent challenges in the field of energy storage. In essence, this research article aims to offer a concise and insightful resource for researchers engaged in overcoming the pressing energy storage issues of our time through the exploration of MOF/GO composites in smart supercapacitors.

Synergistic applications of cyclodextrin-based systems and metal-organic frameworks in transdermal drug delivery for skin cancer therapy

This review article explores the innovative field of eco-friendly cyclodextrin-based coordination polymers and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for transdermal drug delivery in the case of skin cancer therapy. We critically examine the significant advancements in developing these nanocarriers, with a focus on their unique properties such as biocompatibility, targeted drug release, and enhanced skin permeability. These attributes are instrumental in addressing the limitations inherent in traditional skin cancer treatments and represent a paradigm shift towards more effective and patient-friendly therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges faced in optimizing the synthesis process for large-scale production while ensuring environmental sustainability. The review also emphasizes the immense potential for clinical applications of these nanocarriers in skin cancer therapy, highlighting their role in facilitating targeted, controlled drug release which minimizes systemic side effects. Future clinical applications could see these nanocarriers being customized to individual patient profiles, potentially revolutionizing personalized medicine in oncology. With further research and clinical trials, these nanocarriers hold the promise of transforming the landscape of skin cancer treatment. With this study, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research in this field and outline future directions for advancing the development and clinical application of these innovative nanocarriers.

Quest for a Desolvated Structure Unveils Breathing Phenomena in a MOF Leading to Greener Catalysis in a Solventless Setup: Insights from Combined Experimental and Computational Studies

The crystal structure of the metal-organic framework (MOF), {Mn2(1,4-bdc)2(DMF)2}n (1) (1,4-bdcH2, 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid; DMF, N,N-dimethylformamide), is known for a long time; however, its desolvated structure, {Mn2(1,4-bdc)2}n (1'), is not yet known. The first-principles-based computational simulation was used to unveil the structure of 1' that shows the expansion in the framework, leading to pore opening after the removal of coordinated DMF molecules. We have used 1' that contains open metal sites (OMSs) in the structure in cyanosilylation and CO2 cycloaddition reactions and recorded complete conversions in a solventless setup. The pore opening in 1' allows the facile diffusion of small aldehyde molecules into the channels, leading to complete conversion. The reactions with larger aldehydes, 2-naphthaldehyde and 9-anthracenecarboxaldehyde, also show 99.9% conversions, which are the highest reported until date in solventless conditions. The in silico simulations illustrate that larger aldehydes interact with Mn(II) OMSs on the surfaces, enabling a closer interaction and facilitating complete conversions. The catalyst shows high recyclability, exhibiting 99.9% conversions in the successive reaction cycles with negligible change in the structure. Our investigations illustrate that the catalyst 1' is economical, efficient, and robust and allows reactions in a solventless greener setup, and therefore the catalysis with 1' can be regarded as "green catalysis".

Efficient Direct X-ray Detection and Imaging Based on a Lead-Free Electron Donor-Acceptor MOF

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have recently gained extensive attention as potential materials for direct radiation detection due to their strong radiation absorption, long-range order, and chemical tunability. However, it remains challenging to develop a practical MOF-based X-ray direct detector that possesses high X-ray detection efficiency, radiation stability, and environmental friendliness. The integration of donor-acceptor (D-A) pairs into crystalline MOFs is a powerful strategy for the precise fabrication of multifunctional materials with unique optoelectronic properties. Herein, a new lead-free MOF, Cu2I2(TPPA) (CuI-TPPA, TPPA = tris[4-(pyridine-4-yl)phenyl]amine), with a 6-fold interpenetrated structure is designed and synthesized based on the electron donor-acceptor strategy. CuI-TPPA has a large mobility-lifetime (μτ) product of 5.8 × 10-4 cm2 V-1 and a high detection sensitivity of 73.1 μC Gyair-1 cm-2, surpassing that of commercial α-Se detectors. Moreover, the detector remains fairly stable with only a 2% reduction in photocurrent under continuous bias irradiation conditions with a total dose of over 42.83 Gyair. The CuI-TPPA/poly(vinylidene fluoride) flexible composite X-ray detector films are successfully manufactured with different thicknesses. Through multifaceted assessments, the optimal thickness is found with a high detection sensitivity of up to 143.6 μC Gyair-1 cm-2. As proof-of-concept, 11 × 9 pixelated X-ray detectors are fabricated on the same composite film to realize X-ray direct imaging. This work opens up potential applications of MOFs in environmentally friendly and wearable devices for direct X-ray detection and imaging.

Synergistic Boosting Capture Ability of Thiophene Sulfur with a Novel Dual-Amino-Functionalized MOF-on-MOF Adsorbent

A single metal-organic framework (MOF) exhibits some drawbacks in deep adsorptive desulfurization such as insufficient functional active sites, water instability, low surface area, etc. Herein, a dual-amino-functionalized (ZIF-8-NH2)-PVP-(Cu-BTC-NH2) core-shell dual MOF adsorbent was first synthesized by the hydrothermal growth method. The adsorption performance of thiophene sulfur (ThS) is systematically investigated and evaluated at mild temperatures through batch tests. The (ZIF-8-NH2)-PVP-(Cu-BTC-NH2) exhibits good adsorption ability toward ThS, which is attributed to the associative effects of dual MOFs with structure features such as hydrogen bond, open metal active sites, suitable pore sizes and π-π conjugation, etc. Meanwhile, the (ZIF-8-NH2)-PVP-(Cu-BTC-NH2) embedded 25 wt % water still remains crystal intact and good adsorption desulfurization performance, which is attributed to the NH2- functional groups. After five recycles, more than 90% ThS uptake onto (ZIF-8-NH2)-PVP-(Cu-BTC-NH2) could be recovered, exhibiting good reuse performance. This study presents a new strategy for grafting MOF-on-MOF with specific functional groups to improve the abilities of desulfurization and water resistance.

Photosynthetic System Based on a Polyoxometalate-Based Dehydrated Metal-Organic Framework for Nitrogen Fixation

In nature, biological nitrogen fixation is accomplished through the π-back-bonding mechanism of nitrogenase, which poses significant challenges for mimic artificial systems, thanks to the activation barrier associated with the N≡N bond. Consequently, this motivates us to develop efficient and reusable photocatalysts for artificial nitrogen fixation under mild conditions. We employ a charge-assisted self-assembly process toward encapsulating one polyoxometalate (POM) within a dehydrated Zr-based metal-organic framework (d-UiO-66) exhibiting nitrogen photofixation activities, thereby constructing an enzyme-mimicking photocatalyst. The dehydration of d-UiO-66 is favorable for facilitating nitrogen chemisorption and activation via the unpaired d-orbital electron at the [Zr6O6] cluster. The incorporation of POM guests enhanced the charge separation in the composites, thereby facilitating the transfer of photoexcited electrons into the π* antibonding orbital of chemisorbed N2 for efficient nitrogen fixation. Simultaneously, the catalytic efficiency of SiW9Fe3@d-UiO-66 is enhanced by 9.0 times compared to that of d-UiO-66. Moreover, SiW9Fe3@d-UiO-66 exhibits an apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) of 0.254% at 550 nm. The tactics of "working-in-tandem" achieved by POMs and d-UiO-66 are extremely vital for enhancing artificial ammonia synthesis. This study presents a paradigm for the development of an efficient artificial catalyst for nitrogen photofixation, aiming to mimic the process of biological nitrogen fixation.

Interfacing metal organic frameworks with polymers or carbon-based materials: from simple to hierarchical porous and nanostructured composites

In the past few years, metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have been assembled with (bio)polymers and a series of carbon-based materials (graphene, graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes, carbon quantum dots, etc.) leading to a wide range of composites differing in their chemical composition, pore structure and functionality. The objective was mainly to overcome the limitations of MOFs in terms of mechanical properties, chemical stability and processability while imparting novel functionality (electron conductivity, (photo)catalytic activity, etc.) and hierarchical porosity. These composites were considered for numerous applications including gas/liquid adsorption and separation, (photo)catalysis, biomedicine, energy storage, conversion and so on. The performance of such composites depends strongly on their microstructural and physico-chemical properties which are mainly driven by the chemical strategies used to design and process such composites. In this perspective article, we propose to cover this topic and provide a useful survey of recent progress in the synthesis and design of MOFs-carbon material composites. This article will describe the development of composites with increasing complexity in terms of porous architecture, spatial structuration and organisation, and functionality.

Metal-Organic Frameworks/Graphdiyne/Copper Foam Composite Membranes for Catalytic Applications

Graphdiyne (GDY) with a three-dimensional network structure was synthesized on a copper foam (CF) via an in situ Glaser-Hay coupling reaction. A metal-organic framework/GDY composite membrane was designed and synthesized for the first time. CF serves as a template and catalyst for the directed polymerization of GDY membranes. The catalytic activities of HKUST-1/GDY/CF membrane in wet peroxide oxidation of phenol, oxidation of benzyl alcohol, and ring opening of epoxide were studied. The composite membrane has the advantages of appropriateness for continuous operation, simple use process, easy recycling, high catalytic efficiency, etc. It was found that the incorporation of GDY can facilitate electron transfer and effectively improve the catalytic activity of HKUST-1 in membrane catalysis.

Review: Synthesis of metal organic framework-based composites for application as immunosensors in food safety

Ensuring food safety continues to be one of the major global challenges. For effective food safety monitoring, fast, sensitive, portable, and efficient food safety detection strategies must be devised. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystalline materials that have attracted attention for use in high-performance sensors for food safety detection owing to their advantages such as high porosity, large specific surface area, adjustable structure, and easy surface functional modification. Immunoassay strategies based on antigen-antibody specific binding are one of the important means for accurate and rapid detection of trace contaminants in food. Emerging MOFs and their composites with excellent properties are being synthesized, providing new ideas for immunoassays. This article summarizes the synthesis strategies of MOFs and MOF-based composites and their applications in the immunoassays of food contaminants. The challenges and prospects of the preparation and immunoassay applications of MOF-based composites are also presented. The findings of this study will contribute to the development and application of novel MOF-based composites with excellent properties and provide insights into advanced and efficient strategies for developing immunoassays.

Syntheses and High Proton Conductivities of Two 3D Zr(IV)/Hf(IV)-MOFs from Furandicarboxylic Acid

With the gradual progress of research on proton-conducting metal-organic framework (MOFs), it has become a challenging task to find MOF materials that are easy to prepare and have low toxicity, high stability, and splendid proton conductivity. With the abovementioned objectives in mind, we selected the non-toxic organic ligand 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid and the low toxic quadrivalent metals zirconium(IV) or hafnium(IV) as starting materials and successfully obtained 2 three-dimensional porous MOFs, [M6O4(OH)4(FDC)4(OH)4(H2O)4] [M = ZrIV (1) and HfIV (2)], with ultrahigh water stability using a rapid and green synthesis approach. Their proton conductive ability is remarkable, thanks to the large number of Lewis acidic sites contained in their porous frameworks and the abundant H-bonding network, hydroxyl groups, as well as coordination and crystalline water molecules. The positive correlation of their proton conductivity with relative humidity (RH) and the temperature was observed. Notably, their optimized proton conductivities are 2.80 × 10-3 S·cm-1 of 1 and 3.38 × 10-3 S·cm-1 of 2 under 100 °C/98% RH, which are at the forefront of Zr(IV)/Hf(IV) MOFs with prominent proton conductivity. Logically, their framework features, nitrogen/water adsorption/desorption data, and activation energy values are integrated to deduce their proton conductivity and conducting mechanism differences.

Overview on recent advances of magnetic metal-organic framework (MMOF) composites in removal of heavy metals from aqueous system

Developing a novel, simple, and cost-effective analytical technique with high enrichment capacity and selectivity is crucial for environmental monitoring and remediation. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous coordination polymers that are self-assembly synthesized from organic linkers and inorganic metal ions/metal clusters. Magnetic metal-organic framework (MMOF) composites are promising candidate among the new-generation sorbent materials available for magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) of environmental contaminants due to their superparamagnetism properties, high crystallinity, permanent porosity, ultrahigh specific surface area, adaptable pore shape/sizes, tunable functionality, designable framework topology, rapid and ultrahigh adsorption capacity, and reusability. In this review, we focus on recent scientific progress in the removal of heavy metal ions present in contaminated aquatic system by using MMOF composites. Different types of MMOFs, their synthetic approaches, and various properties that are harnessed for removal of heavy metal ions from contaminated water are discussed briefly. Adsorption mechanisms involved, adsorption capacity, and regeneration of the MMOF sorbents as well as recovery of heavy metal ions adsorbed that are reported in the last ten years have been discussed in this review. Moreover, particular prospects, challenges, and opportunities in future development of MMOFs towards their greener synthetic approaches for their practical industrial applications have critically been considered in this review.

A review on development of metal-organic framework-derived bifunctional electrocatalysts for oxygen electrodes in metal-air batteries

Worldwide demand for oil, coal, and natural gas has increased recently because of odd weather patterns and economies recovering from the pandemic. By using these fuels at an astonishing rate, their reserves are running low with each passing decade. Increased reliance on these sources is contributing significantly to both global warming and power shortage problems. It is vital to highlight and focus on using renewable energy sources for power production and storage. This review aims to discuss one of the cutting-edge technologies, metal-air batteries, which are currently being researched for energy storage applications. A battery that employs an external cathode of ambient air and an anode constructed of pure metal in which an electrolyte can be aqueous or aprotic electrolyte is termed as a metal-air battery (MAB). Due to their reportedly higher energy density, MABs are frequently hailed as the electrochemical energy storage of the future for applications like grid storage or electric car energy storage. The demand of the upcoming energy storage technologies can be satisfied by these MABs. The usage of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) in metal-air batteries as a bi-functional electrocatalyst has been widely studied in the last decade. Metal ions or arrays bound to organic ligands to create one, two, or three-dimensional structures make up the family of molecules known as MOFs. They are a subclass of coordination polymers; metal nodes and organic linkers form different classes of these porous materials. Because of their modular design, they offer excellent synthetic tunability, enabling precise chemical and structural control that is highly desirable in electrode materials of MABs.

Lanthanide-Anderson Polyoxometalates Frameworks: Efficient Sulfide Photooxidation

Three polyoxometalate-based metal-organic frameworks were synthesized by the thermal reaction of pyridyl-Anderson polyoxometalate linker and lanthanide ions. With the help of [Ru(bpy)₃]²⁺ photosensitizer, these frameworks exhibited excellent photocatalytic sulfide oxidation performance with sulfoxide selectivity. The reactive oxygen species as well as the photooxidation mechanism were also explored.

MOF-on-MOF heterojunction-derived Co3O4-CuCo2O4 microflowers for low-temperature catalytic oxidation

Through the exchange-extended growth method (EEGM), MOF-on-MOF heteroarchitectures with distinct crystallography were produced and pyrolyzed into hybrid metal oxides. The strong exchange ability of organometallic compounds realized the component reconstruction of the MOF matrix and enhanced the interfacial forces between MOFs, showing an excellent performance in low-temperature catalytic oxidation.

Enhanced carbon dioxide biomethanation with hydrogen using anaerobic granular sludge and metal-organic frameworks: Microbial community response and energy metabolism analysis

In this work, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) were prepared to evaluate its impact on carbon dioxide (CO₂) biomethanization during anaerobic degradation (AD). The results showed that MOFs significantly improved the CO₂ biomethanation efficiency, especially in the AD reactors using a concentration of 1.0 g/L MOFs. Furthermore, MOFs promoted direct interspecific electron transfer and alleviated the hydrogen competition of bacteria. Meanwhile, hydrogenotrophic methanogens were enriched in the AD reactors with MOFs. After the addition of MOFs, there was 3.28 times and 3.41 times increase in the abundance of metabolic functions related to methanogenesis by CO₂ reduction with hydrogen and dark hydrogen oxidation, respectively. There was an increased abundance of all genes that encode the key enzymes used in methane metabolism. However, functional genes involved in nitrate reduction had their expressions inhibited. The work may offer a contribution to helping the industry achieve the carbon capture and utilization policy.

Advances in plasmonic-based MOF composites, their bio-applications and perspectives in this field

INTRODUCTION

Nanomaterials have been used for bio-applications since the late 20st century. In an attempt to tailor and optimize their properties, and by extension their efficiency, composites have attracted considerable attention. In this regard, recent studies on plasmonic nanoparticles and metal-organic framework (NP@MOF) composites suggested these materials show great promise in this field.

AREAS COVERED

This review focused on the more recent scientific advances in the synthetic strategies to optimize plasmonic MOF nanocomposites currently available, as well as their bio-application, particularly as biosensors and therapy.

EXPERT OPINION

Plasmonic MOF nanocomposites have shown great potential as they combine the properties of both materials with proven efficiency in bio-application. On the one hand, nanoMOFs have proven their potential particularly as drug nanocarriers, owing to their exceptional porosity and tunability. On the other hand, plasmonic nanoparticles have been an asset for imaging and phototherapy. Different strategies have been reported to develop these nanocomposites, mainly including core-shell, encapsulation, and in situ reduction. In addition, advanced composite structures should be considered, such as mixed metal nanoparticles, hollow structures or the combination of several approaches. Specifically, plasmonic MOF nanocomposites prove to be attractive stimuli responsive drug delivery systems, phototherapeutic agents as well as highly sensitive biosensors.

Towards the Sustainable Production of Ultra-Low-Sulfur Fuels through Photocatalytic Oxidation

Nowadays, the sulfur-containing compounds are removed from motor fuels through the traditional hydrodesulfurization technology, which takes place under harsh reaction conditions (temperature of 350–450 °C and pressure of 30–60 atm) in the presence of catalysts based on alumina with impregnated cobalt and molybdenum. According to the principles of green chemistry, energy requirements should be recognized for their environmental and economic impacts and should be minimized, i.e., the chemical processes should be carried out at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure. This approach could be implemented using photocatalysts that are sensitive to visible light. The creation of highly active photocatalytic systems for the deep purification of fuels from sulfur compounds becomes an important task of modern catalysis science. The present critical review reports recent progress over the last 5 years in heterogeneous photocatalytic desulfurization under visible light irradiation. Specific attention is paid to the methods for boosting the photocatalytic activity of materials, with a focus on the creation of heterojunctions as the most promising approach. This review also discusses the influence of operating parameters (nature of oxidant, molar ratio of oxidant/sulfur-containing compounds, photocatalyst loading, etc.) on the reaction efficiency. Some perspectives and future research directions on photocatalytic desulfurization are also provided.

MOF/POM hybrids as catalysts for organic transformations

Insertion of molecular metal oxides, e.g. polyoxometalates (POMs), into metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) opens up new research opportunities in various fields, particularly in catalysis. POM/MOF composites have strong acidity, oxygen-rich surface, and redox capacity due to typical characteristics of POMs and the large surface area, highly organized structures, tunable pore size, and shape are due to MOFs. Such hybrid materials have gained a lot of attention due to astonishing structural features, and hence have potential applications in organic catalysis, sorption and separation, proton conduction, magnetism, lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, electrochemistry, medicine, bio-fuel, and so on. The exceptional chemical and physical characteristics of POMOFs make them useful as catalysts in simple organic transformations with high capacity and selectivity. Here, the thorough catalytic study starts with a brief introduction related to POMs and MOFs, and is followed by the synthetic strategies and applications of these materials in several catalytic organic transformations. Furthermore, catalytic conversions like oxidation, condensation, esterification, and some other types of catalytic reactions including photocatalytic reactions are discussed in length with their plausible catalytic mechanisms. The disadvantages of the POMOFs and difficulties faced in the field have also been explored briefly from our perspectives.

Highly efficient Cd(Ⅱ) removal using 3D N-doped carbon derived from MOFs: Performance and mechanisms

Cadmium (Cd) removal is imperative to ensure the safety of aquatic-ecosystem, yet its effective removal technology has remained elusive by far. To address this concern, three-dimensional N-doped carbon (NC) polyhedrons affording ample porosity is fabricated based upon the thermal carbonization and KOH activation of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) precursor. Thus-derived activated NC (a-NC) adsorbent not only overcomes the inherent instability of ZIF-8 but also harvests a maximum Cd(Ⅱ) adsorption capacity of 370.2 mg g^-1, which evidently surpasses those of bare NC counterpart as well as previously reported adsorbents. Impressively, a-NC achieves ca. 100% removal of aqueous Cd(Ⅱ) in a broad working pH range (5-9), and particularly attains stable performances (81-92%) in various realistic water. Theoretical calculations in combination with experimental characterizations further offer mechanistic insight into the enhanced removal exerted by a-NC. Notably, owing to the increased specific surface area (3041 vs. 389 m² g^-1) and enhanced sp² carbon content (91.7 vs. 68.8%) of a-NC as compared to NC, advanced Cd(Ⅱ) adsorption via a-NC can be exhibited. Our designed a-NC material harnessing favorable recycling capability would be in particular attractive in the realm of practical Cd(Ⅱ) remediation.

Coordination Polymers from Biphenyl-Dicarboxylate Linkers: Synthesis, Structural Diversity, Interpenetration, and Catalytic Properties

The present work explores two biphenyl-dicarboxylate linkers, 3,3'-dihydroxy-(1,1'-biphenyl)-4,4'-dicarboxylic (H₄L₁) and 4,4'-dihydroxy-(1,1'-biphenyl)-3,3'-dicarboxylic (H₄L₂) acids, in hydrothermal generation of nine new compounds formulated as [Co₂(μ₂-H₂L₁)₂(phen)₂(H₂O)₄] (1), [Mn₂(μ₄-H₂L₁)₂(phen)₂]_n·4nH₂O (2), [Zn(μ₂-H₂L₁)(2,2'-bipy)(H₂O)]_n (3), [Cd(μ₂-H₂L₁) (2,2'-bipy)(H₂O)]_n (4), [Mn₂(μ₂-H₂L₁)(μ₄-H₂L₁)(μ₂-4,4'-bipy)₂]_n·4nH₂O (5), [Zn(μ₂-H₂L₁)(μ₂-4,4'-bipy)]_n (6), [Zn(μ₂-H₂L₂)(phen)]_n (7), [Cd(μ₃-H₂L₂)(phen)]_n (8), and [Cu(μ₂-H₂L₂) (μ₂-4,4'-bipy)(H₂O)]_n (9). These coordination polymers (CPs) were generated by reacting a metal(II) chloride, a H₄L₁ or H₄L₂ linker, and a crystallization mediator such as 2,2'-bipy (2,2'-bipyridine), 4,4'-bipy (4,4'-bipyridine), or phen (1,10-phenanthroline). The structural types of 1-9 range from molecular dimers (1) to one-dimensional (3, 4, 7) and two-dimensional (8, 9) CPs as well as three-dimensional metal-organic frameworks (2, 5, 6). Their structural, topological, and interpenetration features were underlined, including an identification of unique two- and fivefold 3D + 3D interpenetrated nets in 5 and 6. Phase purity, thermal and luminescence behavior, as well as catalytic activity of the synthesized products were investigated. Particularly, a Zn(II)-based CP 3 acts as an effective and recyclable heterogeneous catalyst for Henry reaction between a model substrate (4-nitrobenzaldehyde) and nitroethane to give β-nitro alcohol products. For this reaction, various parameters were optimized, followed by the investigation of the substrate scope. By reporting nine new compounds and their structural traits and functional properties, the present work further outspreads a family of CPs constructed from the biphenyl-dicarboxylate H₄L₁ and H₄L₂ linkers.

Soybean Oil Epoxidation Catalyzed by a Functionalized Metal–Organic Framework with Active Dioxo-Molybdenum (VI) Centers

In this work, a functionalized gallium metal–organic framework with active dioxo-molybdenum (VI) centers was evaluated as a catalyst in the epoxidation of soybean oil using tert-butyl-hydroperoxide as an oxidizing agent. The influence of the reaction time, temperature, and concentration of the oxidizing agent was studied, and it was demonstrated that the highest epoxide selectivity was obtained at 110 °C after 4 h of reaction (29% conversion and 91% selectivity) using a soybean oil/oxidizing agent ratio of 1/2. The stability of the metal–organic framework was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy EDS. The stability tests demonstrated that the catalyst could be reused in the catalytic process for the recovery of vegetable oils.

Graphical Abstract

Metal-organic frameworks as a therapeutic strategy for lung diseases

Lung diseases remain a global burden today. Lower respiratory tract infections alone cause more than 3 million deaths worldwide each year and are on the rise every year. In particular, with coronavirus disease raging worldwide since 2019, we urgently require a treatment for lung disease. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have a broad application prospect in the biomedical field due to their remarkable properties. The unique properties of MOFs allow them to be applied as delivery materials for different drugs; diversified structural design endows MOFs with diverse functions; and they can be designed as various MOF-drug synergistic systems. This review concentrates on the synthesis design and applications of MOF based drugs against lung diseases, and discusses the possibility of preparing MOF-based inhalable formulations. Finally, we discuss the chances and challenges of using MOFs for targeting lung diseases in clinical practice.

Al-Hussain S, E. A. Zaki M, H. Asghar B, A. Muhammad Z. Synthesis of spiropyrazoles under organic and nonorganic catalysis

Abstract:

Spiropyrazoles display many biological biological activities such as antitumor, vasodilation, analgesic, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, aldosterone antagonistic, anabolic, androgenic, anti-inflammatory, progestational and salt-retaining activities and they also exert neuroprotection in dopaminergic cell death. Many efforts have been made to obtain these derivatives with high yield and excellent regio-, diastereo- and enantioselectivities. Most of the spiroprazole synthesis methods were proceeded in good to excellent yield in the presence of organic catalysts as for examples squaramide, NHC pre-catalyst, pyrrole derivatives, bis-oxazoline, DMAP, DABCO, thiourea derivatives, DBU, acetic acid and quinoline catalysts. In addition, the inorganic and organo-metallic catalysts have been proven their efficiency in synthesis of various types of spiro-pyrazoles in excellent yield. Thus, in this review we have compiled all citations for the synthesis of spiropyrazoles in the presence of various types of catalysts such as organic, inorganic, and metalorganic catalysts in the range 2020 to 2012. This review article is a useful compilation for researchers interested in the synthesis of spiropyrazole derivatives and will assist them in selecting appropriate catalysts for preparation of their spiropyrazoles.

Process of metal-organic framework (MOF)/covalent-organic framework (COF) hybrids-based derivatives and their applications on energy transfer and storage

The fossil-fuel shortage and severe environmental issues have posed ever-increasing demands on clean and renewable energy sources, for which the exploration of electrocatalysts has been a big challenge toward energy transfer and storage. Some indispensable features of electrocatalysts, such as large surface area, controlled structure, high porosity, and effective functionalization, have been proved to be critical for the improvement of electrocatalytic activities. Recently, the rapid expansion of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent-organic frameworks (COFs), and porous-organic polymers has provided extensive opportunities for the development of various electrocatalysts. Moreover, combining diverse descriptions of porous-organic frameworks (such as MOFs and COFs) can generate amazing and fantastic properties, affording the formed MOF/COF (including core-shell MOF@MOF and MOF@COF and layer-on-layer MOF-on-MOF or COF-on-MOF) heterostructures wide applications in diverse fields, especially in clean energy and energy transfer. To further boosts electronic conductivity, catalytic performances, and energy storage abilities, these MOF/COF hybrid materials have been widely utilized as versatile precursors for the manufacture of transition metal catalysts embedded within mesoporous carbon nitrides (M@CN_x) and porous carbon nitride frameworks (CN_x) via a facile pyrolysis process. Given that these M@CN_x and CN_x hybrids are composed of abundant catalytic centers, rich functionalities, and large specific surface areas, vast applications in energy transfer and energy storage fields can be realized. In this mini-review, we summarize the preparation strategies of MOF/COF-based hybrids, as well as their derivatives, nanostructure formation mechanism of M@CN_x and CN_x hybrids from MOF/COF-based hybrid materials, and their applications as catalysts for driving diverse reactions and electrode materials for energy storage. Further, current challenges and future prospects of applying these derivatives into energy conversion and storage devices are also discussed.

Bimetallic MOF-Derived Synthesis of Cobalt-Cerium Oxide Supported Phosphotungstic Acid Composites for the Oleic Acid Esterification

The impregnation of phosphotungstic acid (HPW) with porous cobalt-cerium oxide (HPW@CoCeO) has been prepared by pyrolysis of CoCe-MOF and used for the production of methyl oleate from oleic acid and methanol. FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM, N2 adsorption/desorption, and NH3-TPD were characterized for the prepared composites. Simultaneously, the effects of reaction time, substrate molar ratio, temperature, and catalyst loading on catalytic activity were highlighted, and the conversion of 67.2% was reached after 4 h at 60°C. Importantly, HPW@CoCeO was reusabe and reused more than eight times, and the oleic acid conversion could be maintained at 61.8% without significant activity loss. Thus, the HPW@CoCeO composite could be used as acid catalysts for sustainable energy production.

Organophosphonate-Functionalized Telluromolybdate Containing a [TeMo10O37]10- Building Block and Its Catalytic Efficiency for Knoevenagel Condensation

A novel organodiphosphonate-based telluromolybdate cluster, (NH₄)₆Na₃H₁₃[TeMo₁₀O₃₇(CoMo₂O₆L)₄]·11H₂O [1; L = (O₃P)₂C(O)(CH₂)₃NH₂], has been successfully synthesized by a simple one-pot aqueous reaction. Intriguingly, the [TeMo₁₀O₃₇]^10- subunit with tetrahedral geometry of TeO₄ is observed in the organophosphonate-functionalized polyoxometalates for the first time. Compound 1 was prepared in a buffer solution (pH = 5.5) with alendronic acid (Ale) and (NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄·4H₂O as raw materials. The polyanion [TeMo₁₀O₃₇(CoMo₂O₆L)₄]^22- was constructed from four {Mo₂O₆L} subunits encapsulating an interesting Te-Mo heterometal subunit [TeMo₁₀O₃₇]^10- through four CoO₆ octahedra and has been fully characterized by routine techniques. In addition, compound 1, as a heterogeneous catalyst, shows good conversion (92%) and high selectivity (99%) for Knoevenagel condensation reaction.

Selective Photocatalytic Oxidation of Sulfides in Lanthanide Metal -Organic Frameworks Incorporating Ru(2,2'-bpy)3 photosensitizer

Three isostructural lanthanide metal-organic frameworks (Ln-MOFs) were synthesized with uncoordinated N^N site, and the Ru(N^N)₃ photosensitizer was introduced via coordination link. These functionalized frameworks showed excellent performance in the photocatalytic oxidation of sulfides with good conversion and high sulfoxide selectivity.

Coordination polymers with embedded recognition sites: lessons from cyclotriveratrylene-type ligands

Coordination polymers with molecular recognition sites are assembled using cyclotriveratrylene ligands. Many show differential guest-spaces with host and lattice sites available, however common host–guest and self-inclusion motifs can block sites.

Two imidazole multicarboxylate-based MOFs: syntheses, structures and proton conductive properties

Two highly water-stable MOFs exhibited optimal σ values of around 10−4 S cm−1 at 98% RH and 100 °C, which can be compared to the values of previous MOFs.

A porous anionic zinc(ii) metal–organic framework for gas adsorption, selective uptake of dyes and sensing of Fe3+ by Tb3+ ion encapsulation

A 3D anionic, porous MOF exhibits selective adsorption of cationic dyes and can be used as a fast-response fluorescence sensor for the detection of Fe3+ ions by Tb3+ ion encapsulation.

A green and sustainable approach for the synthesis of 1,5-benzodiazepines and spirooxindoles in one-pot using a MIL-101(Cr) metal–organic framework as a reusable catalyst

Green and efficient protocols for the synthesis of 1,5-benzodiazepines and spirooxindoles were developed utilizing MIL-101(Cr) in SFRC and water as solvent respectively.