Water-based routes for synthesis of metal-organic frameworks: A review

Although metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) show numerous advantages over other crystalline materials, their industrial relevances have been impeded owing to their many drawbacks such as environmental impacts and economic costs of their synthesis. A green preparation pathway could greatly reduce the environmental costs, energy, and the need for toxic organic solvents, and consequently reduce the production cost. Thus, the most desirable synthesis route is the replacement of harsh organic solvents with aqueous solutions to abate environmental and economic impacts. This review summarizes recent research advancements of water-based routes for MOF synthesis and gives a brief outline of the most prominent examples. The challenges and prospects of the commercialization of promising MOFs in the future are also presented. This study aims to offer necessary information regarding the green, sustainable, and industrially acceptable fabrication of MOFs for their commercial applications in the future.