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Updated: Aug 19, 2025

Electrophoretic Crystallization of Ultrathin High-performance Metal-organic Framework Membranes
Published on: August 16, 2018
Advanced Covalent Organic Framework-Based Membranes for Recovery of Ionic Resources
Chao Wu1,2, Lei Xia3, Shengji Xia2
1Department of Chemical Engineering, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium.
Abstract:
Membrane technology has shown a viable potential in conversion of liquid-waste or high-salt streams to fresh waters and resources. However, the non-adjustability pore size of traditional membranes limits the application of ion capture due to their low selectivity for target ions. Recently, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have become a promising candidate for construction of advanced ion separation membranes for ion resource recovery due to their low density, large surface area, tunable channel structure, and tailored functionality. This tutorial review aims to analyze and summarize the progress in understanding ion capture mechanisms, preparation processes, and applications of COF-based membranes. First, the design principles for target ion selectivity are illustrated in terms of theoretical simulation of ions transport in COFs, and key properties for ion selectivity of COFs and COF-based membranes. Next, the fabrication methods of diverse COF-based membranes are classified into pure COF membranes, COF continuous membranes, and COF mixed matrix membranes. Finally, current applications of COF-based membranes are highlighted: desalination, extraction, removal of toxic metal ions, radionuclides and lithium, and acid recovery. This review presents promising approaches for design, preparation, and application of COF-based membranes in ion selectivity for recovery of ionic resources.
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