Design and application of ionic covalent organic frameworks

Ionic covalent organic frameworks (iCOFs) are an emerging type of crystalline organic polymers that consist of the ionic skeleton and corresponding counterions. As a joint subgroup of porous ionic polymers (PiPs) and COFs, iCOFs can combine the benefits of both PiPs and COFs. Thus, iCOFs demonstrate great potential in many application fields such as ion conduction, life science, adsorption, separation, catalysis, and sensing. In this context, this review straightens the thread of thought toward this seductive material. A comprehensive introduction was expanded in all kinds of synthesis methods, classification features, and application potential. Finally, the opportunities and challenges of iCOFs were analyzed in detail to understand the future developing prospects deeply.