Incorporation of Molecular Catalysts in Metal–Organic Frameworks for Highly Efficient Heterogeneous Catalysis

Porous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are built from periodically alternate organic moieties and metal ions/clusters. The unique features of the open framework structures, the high surface areas, the permanent porosity, and the appropriate hydrophilic and hydrophobic pore nature mean that MOF materials are a class of ideal host matrices for immobilization of molecular catalysts. The emerging porous materials can not only retain but are also able to enhance the catalytic functions of the single individuals. MOF catalysts have the following super characters: i) uniformly dispersed catalytic sites on the pore surfaces to improve the utility, ii) appropriate hydrophilic and hydrophobic pore nature to facilitate the recognition and transportation of reactant and product molecules, iii) a collaborative microenvironment to realize synergistic catalysis, and iv) simple separation and recovery for long-term usage. Accompanying the development of the synthetic strategies and the technologies for the characterization of MOF materials, MOF catalysis has undergone an upsurge, which has transcended the stage of opportunism. Here, the rational design and synthesis of MOF catalysts are discussed, along with the key factors of active sites, microenvironments, and transmission channels that lead to the distinct catalytic properties of MOF catalysts.