Intrinsically conducting metal-organic frameworks

The development of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as microporous electronic conductors is an exciting research frontier that has the potential to revolutionize a wide range of technologically and industrially relevant fields, from catalysis to solid-state sensing and energy-storage devices, among others. After nearly two decades of intense research on MOFs, examples of intrinsically conducting MOFs remain relatively scarce; however, enormous strides have recently been made. This article briefly reviews the current status of the field, with a focus on experimental milestones that have shed light on crucial structure-property relationships that underpin future progress. Central to our discussion are a series of design considerations, including redox-matching, donor-acceptor interactions, mixed valency, and Pi-interactions. Transformational opportunities exist at both fundamental and applied levels, from improved measurement techniques and theoretical understanding of conduction mechanisms to device engineering. Taken together, these developments will herald a new era in advanced functional materials.