Metal-organic frameworks and their derivatives for aqueous zinc-ion batteries: structural engineering, mechanisms,...

Metal-organic framework (MOF) materials, by virtue of their unique structures and tunable chemical properties, show broad application prospects in the field of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). However, practical applications are constrained by bottlenecks such as poor electrical conductivity, insufficient stability, high synthesis costs, and environmental concerns. In response, researchers are focusing on multiple strategies, including enhancing conductivity through composite modification, improving structural stability by optimizing synthesis conditions, and exploring green and economical routes to reduce costs and environmental impacts. Despite certain progress, the application of MOF materials in energy storage is still in its infancy, and further in-depth research is urgently needed to overcome existing limitations. This review systematically summarizes the synthesis strategies and structural features of pristine MOFs, their derivatives and composite functional materials, and comprehensively evaluates their electrochemical applications in all components of AZIBs. Special emphasis is placed on elucidating the intrinsic regulatory mechanisms of MOF pore architecture, ligand types and metal active centers on Zn²⁺ transport, interfacial desolvation and battery stability. On this basis, the core challenges and modification approaches in this field are outlined, providing systematic theoretical references for the rational design of MOF-based materials for AZIBs and facilitating subsequent innovative research and breakthroughs.