Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Metal Oxide Nanocatalysts

Abstract

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and metal oxide nanocatalysts (MONCs) represent two distinct but highly promising classes of functional materials capable of addressing critical global challenges in energy sustainability and environmental remediation. MOF-based materials have attracted significant research attention as a result of their structural versatility, tunable molecular-level porosity, exceptionally high surface area, availability of coordinatively unsaturated metal sites, and diverse topologies and aperture sizes, as well as chemical compositions. These characteristics make them particularly well-suited for catalytic applications. Integrating MONCs into MOF architectures leads to the formation of hybrid systems that leverage the individual strengths of each component, resulting in improved functionality through synergistic interactions. In these systems, MOFs typically serve as robust scaffolds offering accessible active sites, while MONCs contribute redox activity, thermal stability, and enhanced durability. This synergy has led to notable advancements in areas such as carbon dioxide capture, water purification, and hydrogen generation. These hybrid materials show immense potential for climate-responsive technologies, including renewable energy storage, greenhouse gas reduction, and sustainable manufacturing processes. Despite notable advancements in MOF-MONC composites design and applications, further research is required to refine the synthesis methods in conformity with the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry, reduce production costs, and enhance scalability for industrial deployment. This chapter delves into the innovative integration of MOFs and MONCs, presenting a comprehensive overview of their synergistic capabilities and transformative potential in tackling urgent environmental and energy-related issues.