Beyond Solvothermal: Alternative Synthetic Methods for Covalent Organic Frameworks

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are crystalline porous organic materials that hold a wealth of potential applications across various fields. The development of COFs, however, is significantly impeded by the dearth of efficient synthetic methods. The traditional solvothermal approach, while prevalent, is fraught with challenges such as complicated processes, excessive energy consumption, long reaction times, and limited scalability, rendering it unsuitable for practical applications. The quest for simpler, quicker, more energy-efficient, and environmentally benign synthetic strategies is thus paramount for bridging the gap between academic COF chemistry and industrial application. This Review provides an overview of the recent advances in alternative COF synthetic methods, with a particular emphasis on energy input. We discuss representative examples of COF synthesis facilitated by microwave, ultrasound, mechanic force, light, plasma, electric field, and electron beam. Perspectives on the advantages and limitations of these methods against the traditional solvothermal approach are highlighted.

Automated summary

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are crystalline porous organic materials with potential applications in various fields. However, the development of COFs is hindered by the lack of efficient synthetic methods. The traditional solvothermal approach faces challenges such as complicated processes, excessive energy consumption, long reaction times, and limited scalability, making it unsuitable for practical applications. This Review provides an overview of recent advances in alternative COF synthetic methods, focusing on energy input. Examples of COF synthesis using microwave, ultrasound, mechanic force, light, plasma, electric field, and electron beam are discussed, highlighting the advantages and limitations of these methods compared to the traditional solvothermal approach.