Architectural Engineering of Metal-Organic Frameworks in Lithium-Ion Batteries: Multifunctional Roles, Challenges, and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have revolutionized the landscape of portable electronics and electric vehicles, owing to their exceptional energy density, rapid charging capabilities, and extended cycle life. However, the relentless pursuit of enhanced performance and safety propels the quest for innovative, efficient, and reliable materials for LIBs applications. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), with their precisely controllable architectures, diverse pore configurations, and customizable chemical properties, have emerged as a leading contender in the realm of energy storage materials. This review comprehensively examines the transformative potential of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) in advancing Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs), focusing on their multifunctional roles as electrodes, electrolytes, and separators. MOFs' unique structural properties—such as tunable porosity, high surface area, and customizable chemical functionalities—enable significant improvements in energy density, ion transport, and thermal stability. The study highlights innovative applications, including MOF-derived carbon coatings for silicon anodes, conductive MOF-enhanced cathodes, and MOF-based solid-state electrolytes for dendrite suppression. Despite these advancements, challenges such as intrinsic low conductivity, structural degradation during cycling, and high production costs remain critical barriers. To address these limitations, the review proposes strategic research directions, including the integration of conductive networks, development of multifunctional hybrid materials, and sustainable synthesis methods. By bridging fundamental research with practical applications, this work provides a roadmap for leveraging MOFs to design next-generation LIBs with enhanced performance, safety, and environmental sustainability.