Chemically Robust Metal–Organic Framework-Based Materials for Electroanalysis and Energy Storage

Abstract

Given several advantages of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) including regular porosity, ultrahigh specific surface area, and periodic intra-framework functionality [1], MOFs have been considered as desirable thin-film materials deposited on electrode surfaces for various electrochemical applications including electrocatalysis, electroanalysis, and energy storage [2]. However, the electrically insulating nature and relatively poor chemical stability of most MOFs strongly limit their use in these applications [2-3].In this presentation, various strategies that render the use of MOF-based thin films for electrochemical sensors and energy storage will be highlighted. The talk will cover several recent examples demonstrated by our research group that can facilitate the use of such porous thin films for electrochemical applications, such as: (1) the synthesis of chemically stable MOFs facilitating charge transport for electroanalysis [4-6], (2) the design of conductive MOF-based nanocomposites for supercapacitors [7], and (3) the pore-confined active species in MOF thin films that can exhibit remarkable electrochemical activity [8-9]. With rational material designs mentioned above, MOF thin films can be considered as advanced platforms for a range of electrochemical applications.