Recent Advances in Transition Metal-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks for Hydrogen Production

The escalating global energy demand and the imperative to mitigate carbon emissions have intensified the pursuit for sustainable energy solutions, with hydrogen emerging as a pivotal clean energy carrier. Transition metal-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have garnered significant attention for their potential in efficient hydrogen production due to their high surface area, tunable porosity, and versatile catalytic properties. Despite notable advancements in MOF synthesis, critical challenges related to stability, electrical conductivity, and scalability continue to hinder their widespread application. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent progress in the design and synthesis of transition metal-based MOFs, emphasizing their role in electrocatalytic and photocatalytic hydrogen production. Key synthetic strategies and their influence on catalytic performance are systematically discussed, alongside the identification of existing limitations and knowledge gaps. By highlighting these critical areas and proposing pathways for future research, this review aims to accelerate the practical integration of MOFs into the emerging hydrogen economy.