Applications for metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as quantum dot semiconductors

The structure of MOF-5 is considered as being constructed of discrete semiconductor Zn4O13 quantum dots stabilized and interconnected by terephthalate linkers. Terephthalate can absorb light and sensitize the semiconductor dots. In this way, MOFs exhibit the photocatalytic activity of MOF-5 for the degradation of phenols. As a photocatalyst, the most remarkable feature of MOF-5 is the observation of reverse shapeselectivity in which large phenolic molecules that cannot access the interior of the micropores are degraded significantly faster than those others that can enter into the particle. MOF-5 also exhibits activity as an active component in photovoltaic and electroluminescence cells.