Ionic liquids promoted synthesis, enhanced functions, and expanded applications of porous organic frameworks

Porous organic frameworks, such as metal–organic frameworks and covalent organic frameworks, have garnered increasing scientific interest owing to their unique properties such as large specific surface areas and diverse structures. However, traditional synthetic strategies and intrinsic limitations restrict their application potential. In this regard, designable ionic liquids (ILs) can provide an ideal ionic microenvironment or serve as active species to endow organic frameworks with additional functions such as conductivity, fluidity, adsorption capacity, and catalytic activity. This review aims to provide a new perspective on the multifunctional roles of ILs in porous organic frameworks, based on the synthesis and applications of the porous organic frameworks. First, the effects of ILs on promoting the synthesis and modulating the functions of porous organic frameworks are discussed comprehensively. Then, the roles of ILs in improving the performance of porous organic frameworks in catalysis, energy storage, and gas adsorption are summarized. Finally, an outlook on challenges and opportunities in the progressing field of ILs with porous organic frameworks is presented.