Molecular engineering for synthesizing novel structures of metal–organic frameworks with multifunctional properties

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) which are constructed from metal ions or metal ion clusters and bridging organic linkers, have recently emerged as an important family of porous materials due to their unique structural and functional properties. This review provides the molecular engineering for synthesizing novel MOF structures and summarizes their potential applications. In this review, we present the promotion of the synthesis chemistry in this area and introduce the general methods and the important factor of organic template in the synthesis process. To obtain MOFs with high porosity, three strategies will be introduced. We also discuss how to functionalize the MOFs from two directions: chiral frameworks and frameworks constructed from rare earth metals. The burgeoning area of MOF membranes will also be introduced. Most applications of MOFs are based on their ability to function as hosts. The potential applications including hydrogen storage and methane storage, molecular separation, catalysis, and sensor, are summarized. It is expected that MOFs will provide extraordinary advantages over traditional porous materials and have an important and permanent impact on the future of porous compounds.