Imide-based covalent organic frameworks: molecular design, synthesis, and applications in clean energy and...

Imide-based covalent organic frameworks (Imide-COFs) have emerged as a chemically robust subclass of COFs, distinguished by their π-conjugated backbones, high crystallinity, and structural tunability. This class of COF constructed via condensation reactions between electron-deficient aromatic dianhydrides and electron-rich diamines, these frameworks exhibit strong donor-acceptor interactions that impart intrinsic redox activity and facilitate efficient charge transport. Such properties make Imide-COFs attractive candidates for applications in electrochemical energy storage, photocatalysis, and clean energy conversion. Their extended π-systems and accessible pore networks further support guest-host interactions relevant to gas adsorption, ion transport, and environmental remediation. This review highlights recent advances in the rational design and synthesis of Imide-COFs, correlating their molecular structures with functional performance in energy-related applications such as lithium/sodium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and water-splitting systems. We also discuss their potential in pollutant removal and other environmental technologies, and conclude with a perspective on future opportunities for developing Imide-COFs as multifunctional materials for sustainable energy and environmental solutions.