Luminescent Metal–Organic Frameworks as Multimodal Platforms for Advanced Anticounterfeiting and Security Applications

The incessant threats of counterfeiting outbreaks promptly demand augmentation in the development of novel security routes. Luminescent metal–organic frameworks (L-MOFs) with broad spectral emission and potential for emission modulation via judicious controlled amendment have emerged as novel promising materials for security measures and anticounterfeiting applications. This Perspective provides an overview of the current developments and utilization of L-MOF materials in novel security measures. The fundamental principles and mechanisms behind the origin of luminescence in L-MOF materials are discussed at large. Herein, we also cover the external stimuli-triggered luminescence emission and subsequent alteration in the optical properties of de novo L-MOFs as well as their reconfigurable composite materials. Further, practical participation in real-time security and anticounterfeiting measures like latent fingerprint (LFP) detection, logic gate integrated molecular keypad lock systems, and molecular computing keypad lock systems for data protection are deliberated. The shortcomings and hurdles to employing L-MOF materials, such as scalability, long-term sustainability, and integration with current technologies, have also been taken into account in this Perspective. Continued research and development efforts are deemed essential to overcome these challenges and fully realize the potential of L-MOFs in combating counterfeiting and enhancing security measures. Despite these challenges, the prospect of L-MOFs in security applications is seen as promising, driven by ongoing advancements in material science and innovative approaches to overcoming current limitations.