Metal-organic framework for hydrogen storage: Advances and challenges brought by the new technologies

Abstract

In a shift that restructures and strengthens the global energy framework, harnessing hydrogen (H2) for power is critical in attaining zenith carbon emissions and realizing carbon neutrality aspirations because 20% of CO2 emissions will be substituted with H2 energy in 2050. However, safe and efficient hydrogen storage is essential to the hydrogen energy chain. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are potential solid hydrogen storage materials due to their high specific surface area and adjustable pore structure. The hydrogen storage of MOFs has experienced a high-profile moment of glory because of the higher storage capacities (>7 wt% at low temperature and high pressure, exceeding many other porous materials). However, MOFs face a cold stage due to unsatisfactory hydrogen storage performance at room temperature. As of today, we are far from fully developing the field, but this does not mean that the presence qualifications of MOFs have been lost. This review highlights recent advances in MOFs for hydrogen storage, including the potential power of reticular chemistry, advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), packing models, thermal management, and metal hydrides. Applying typical reticular chemistry has resulted in the optimized performance of MOFs. Emerging technologies promise to overcome the challenges associated with hydrogen storage in MOFs, especially for the prospects of room-temperature storage and industrialized applications.