Nanostructure Impregnated MOFs for Photo-catalytic and Sensing Applications

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), due to their high porosity, enhanced surface area, rich topology, diverse structures and controllable chemical structures, have recently emerged as an exciting class of porous crystalline materials. The integration of nanostructures with MOFs generates MOF composites with synergistic properties and functions, attracting the broad application prospect. In this chapter, the primary strategies guiding the design of these materials, including MOFs, are described as host materials that contain and stabilize guest nanoparticles. A detailed discussion about the recent progress of nanostructure-impregnated MOFs based on diverse photocatalytic (e.g., environmental remediation, oxidation of alcohols, CO2 reduction, and H2 generation) and sensing (organic pollutants, gaseous pollutants, and heavy metal ions) applications has been provided. With a deeper knowledge of nanostructure-impregnated MOFs, this book chapter will provide better guidance for the rational design of high-performance MOF-based materials and is likely to shed new light on future research in this promising field.

Keywords: Composites, Environmental remediation, Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), Porous material, Photocatalysis, Sensing.