Recent Advances in Porous Hydrogen-Bonded Organic Frameworks for Luminescent and Photoelectric Sensing

Hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs), self-assembled from organic building blocks via hydrogen bonding and other weak interactions such as π-π interactions, represent a distinct class of crystalline porous materials. Through rational framework design and functionalization, exceptional intrinsic luminescent and photoelectric properties can be integrated into these structures. Coupled with their unique advantages of solution processability, facile recyclability, and biocompatibility, HOFs emerge as an ideal platform for developing next-generation high-performance sensors. This review systematically summarizes recent advancements in HOF-based materials for luminescent and photoelectric sensing. We elucidate the underlying signal transduction mechanisms, highlighting how specific intermolecular interactions induce detectable changes in optical or electrical signals. The discussion of applications ranges from the detection of hazardous gases, organic pollutants, and chemical warfare agents to the monitoring of antibiotics and biomarkers, as well as temperature sensing and chiral recognition. Finally, we critically assess the current landscape, identifying key challenges to guide the development of HOF-based luminescent and photoelectric sensors.