Metal−Organic Framework (MOF)-Based Catalysts in Selective Catalytic Reduction of Nitrogen Oxide

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives usually have large specific surface areas and high porosity, thus resulting in various possible applications. However, until recently, only a few works have applied MOFs and their derivatives in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of nitrogen oxide, which was one of the hottest topics in the field of air pollution control. In this chapter we compare the catalytic activities of MOF and its derivatives with typical SCR catalysts, including zeolite, oxide, and carbon-supported oxide, in order to judge the problem of if and how the activity of MOF potentially surpassed typical SCR catalysts. As a result, if the same catalytic center was compared, the performance of multimetallic MOFs was comparable to that of zeolite; the activity of MOF-derived oxide was comparable to that of direct oxide. Moreover, MOF-derived carbon-supported oxide was the best form among MOFs and their derivatives in the field of SCR. In this form, the derivative maintained the original structure, ensuring good dispersion of active species and increasing the number of active sites at the same time. The activity of this derivative potentially surpassed those of zeolite, oxide, and carbon-supported oxide. This chapter summarizes recent developments and mechanisms in the field of MOFs using as SCR catalysts, highlights the most effective form among various MOF derivatives, and points out overlooked problems during experimental design and data interpretation. In the future, more emphasis should be placed on enhancing low-temperature activity and resistances to H2O, SO2, and HCl, which are urgent problems in SCR.