ZIF-67-derived electrode materials for high-performance supercapacitors: Advances and perspectives

The development of next-generation energy storage devices necessitates electrode materials that can simultaneously offer high surface area, tunable porosity, and efficient charge transport. Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-67 (ZIF-67), a cobalt-based metal organic framework, has emerged as a modular platform for designing high-performance supercapacitor electrodes. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent breakthroughs in the synthesis, modification, and application of ZIF-67 and its derivatives. Diverse synthetic routes ranging from solvothermal and hydrothermal to surfactant-assisted, microwave, and green solid-state methods are systematically compared with respect to structural control and electrochemical outcomes. Special emphasis is placed on ZIF-67-based composites incorporating carbon materials, conductive polymers, and transition metal compounds, which unlock synergistic effects to enhance conductivity and capacitance. Additionally, the role of doping, redox-active interfaces, and advanced electrolytes in tuning charge storage behavior is critically examined. We highlight the limitations that persist, particularly in cycling stability and scalability, and propose design principles to overcome these hurdles. This review positions ZIF-67 as a highly adaptable framework for next-generation supercapacitors and offers a roadmap for future innovations in MOF-derived energy storage systems.