Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as fluorescence sensors: principles, development and prospects

MOFs are self-assembled by inorganic metals and organic ligands, which have the advantages of inorganic and organic materials. With their porosity, chemical tunability and moderate-to-high stability, MOFs have become excellent candidates for fluorescent sensors. The accuracy, sensitivity, selectivity and linear range of the MOF-based fluorescence sensor can be further improved by introducing other fluorescent molecules into the MOFs. MOF-based fluorescence sensors can be widely used in water and air pollution detection, early diagnosis and treatment of diseases and other fields. This review focuses on the principles of MOF-based fluorescence sensors, including the origin of the fluorescence signal, response mode and mechanism. The latest developments in MOF-based fluorescence sensors are reported according to the classification of the analytes. The challenges faced by MOF-based fluorescence sensors are also discussed and some solutions and directions for the future are proposed.

Automated summary

MOF-based fluorescence sensors, assembled by inorganic metals and organic ligands, combine the advantages of both inorganic and organic materials. The addition of other fluorescent molecules can enhance their accuracy, sensitivity, selectivity, and linear range, making them widely applicable in water and air pollution detection, early diagnosis and treatment of diseases, and other fields.