Advanced Synthesis and Characterization of Iron-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Efficient Heavy Metal Removal: Innovations, Mechanisms, and Practical Applications

Abstract To enable the removal of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), the existing contamination concerns must be addressed with improved environmental sustainability. Given the encouraging results, Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have become viable options for radical solutions of removal POPs because of their remarkable and exceptional surface areas. This review discusses and examines the use of MOFs and the progress made in removing heavy metals and oxoanon compounds from aquatic environments. The role of ligand chemistry and some functional groups (thiols and amines) that aid in increased selective binding to target metals is addressed and revealed to enhance the adsorption properties of iron-based MOFs. The effects of dynamic ligand frameworks are expanded through the processes that occur in adsorption kinetics and capacity and delving into the debate on post-synthetic modifications. Nanoscale modifications of MOFs are addressed, and material regeneration and improvements in absorption efficiency are discussed. Characterization of denatured MOFs has been investigated using analytical techniques, including synchrotron-based methods (X-ray Diffraction (SXRD) and X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS)), which provide detailed electronic structural insights. This review attempts to incorporate existing knowledge, fill in knowledge gaps, and recommend future research avenues to maximize MOFs for environmental applications.