Hydrogen-bonded organic framework: Construction and gas separation application

Hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) constitute an exceptional category of crystalline porous materials, predominantly synthesized through the intricate interplay of intermolecular hydrogen bonds among organic or metal–organic building blocks. These materials have emerged as promising candidates for low-carbon and energy-efficient separation techniques, with adsorption and membrane separation leading the forefront. Through the meticulous design of pore environments, HOFs enable sophisticated separation processes, harnessing the principles of thermodynamics, dynamics, molecular sieving, and the inherent flexibility of the network. The solution-processible nature of HOFs further enhances their utility, allowing for the fabrication of adsorbents or membranes with tailored microstructures that cater to specific separation needs. These distinctive attributes position HOFs as a compelling contender in the realm of precise gas separation. This comprehensive review delves into the nuances of gas adsorption and membrane separation, aiming to equip readers with a profound and holistic grasp of the intricate interplay between the microstructural features of HOFs and their separation efficacy. Additionally, we provide a systematic summary of the construction strategies, structural characteristics, and pertinent physical property parameters of HOFs, thereby laying a solid foundation for researchers in the interdisciplinary realms of chemistry, materials science, and environmental science.