Application of metal organic gels (MOGs) in analytical chemistry

Abstract

The emergence of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) has been accompanied by a marked expansion in the development of gels derived from this structural platform. MOF-based systems exhibit broad functional potential, including applications in catalytic processes, gas separation and storage, energy storage, sensing, and biomedical technologies. Unlike covalently cross-linked gels such as polymer gels and metallogels, or supramolecular gels stabilized by relatively weak noncovalent forces like hydrogen bonding or van der Waals interactions, metal–organic gels (MOGs) are distinguished by networks that are assembled through coordination bonding. The strength of coordination bonds positions them intermediate between weak physical interactions and fully covalent bonds. In recent years, MOGs have attracted significant research interest in analytical chemistry applications because of their hierarchical porosity, huge specific surface area, and versatile surface functionalization. Compared with conventional MOFs, MOGs can be synthesized under milder and more robust reaction conditions. This review explores the applications of MOGs in analytical chemistry with emphasis on the challenges and the potential future developments.