Transcending Metal Organic Framework chemistry: Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework derivatives as tunable catalysts for...

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) are made up of transition metal ions (such as zinc or cobalt) and imidazolate (Im) linkers that are tetrahedrally coordinated and surrounded by nitrogen atoms from the five-membered imidazole ring. These nitrogen atoms serve as bridge linkers that connect the metal centers within the three-dimensional (3D) structure. In recent years, there has been a growing focus on the synthesis and application of ZIF-based materials, owing to their remarkable characteristics, such as extremely high surface area, adjustable porosity, and excellent hydrothermal toughness and chemical resistance. ZIFs can be manufactured using a simple and environmentally acceptable organic synthesis process. ZIF nanostructures and average particle sizes may be modified by precisely altering the experimental conditions. This review highlights the most recent strategies for synthesizing ZIF-based materials, showcasing notable examples in the field. Moreover, the thermal and chemical properties of ZIFs, along with their potential applications in adsorption, separation, catalysis, energy storage, and drug delivery, have been carefully investigated. It has been observed that integrating the benefits of ZIFs with other materials and compounds can lead to enhanced results compared to those of pure, unmodified ZIFs. In addition, future prospects and problems are discussed, with an emphasis on expanding this method for industrial applications. This article gives a detailed assessment of ZIF-based materials' uses in wastewater treatment, energy storage, and biological applications.