Metal–organic-framework-based catalysts for hydrogenation reactions

Abstract

Metal–organic-framework (MOF)-based materials with novel physicochemical properties have emerged as promising catalysts for various hydrogenation reactions. In addition to metal clusters and multifunctional organic ligands, MOF-based catalysts can incorporate other functional species, and thus provide various active sites for hydrogenation processes. The structural properties of the catalysts play significant roles in enhancing the interactions among the reactants, products, and catalytic sites, which can be rationally designed. Because of the synergistic effects between the active sites and the structural properties, MOF-based catalysts can achieve higher activities and selectivities in hydrogenation reactions than can be obtained using traditional heterogeneous catalysts. This review provides an overview of recent developments in MOF-based catalysts in the hydrogenation of alkenes, alkynes, nitroarenes, cinnamaldehyde, furfural, benzene, and other compounds. Strategies for improving the catalytic performances of MOF-based catalysts are discussed as well as the different active sites and structural properties of the catalysts.