Mechanics, Ionics, and Optics of Metal-Organic Framework and Coordination Polymer Glasses

Melt and glassy states of coordination polymers (CPs)/metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have gained attention as a new class of amorphous materials. Many bridging ligands such as azolate, nitrile, thiocyanide, thiolate, pyridine, sulfonate, and amide are available to construct crystals with melting temperatures in the range of 60-593 degrees C. Here, we discuss the mechanism of crystal melting, glass structures, and mechanical properties by considering both experimental and theoretical studies. High and exclusive H+ or Li+ conductivities in moldable CP glasses have been proven in the all-solid-state devices such as fuel cells or secondary batteries. Transparent glasses with wide composition and available dopants are also attractive for nonlinear optics, photoconductivity, emission, and light-harvesting. The ongoing challenge in the field is to develop the design principles of CP/MOF melts and glasses, corresponding functions of mass (ion, electron, photon, phonon, and so forth). transport and conversion, and the integration of devices with the use of their tunable mechanical properties.

Automated summary

The melting and glassy states of coordination polymers/metal-organic frameworks have attracted attention as a new class of amorphous materials with potential applications. The challenge in this field lies in developing design principles, achieving corresponding functions of mass transport and conversion, and integrating devices with tunable mechanical properties.