Zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks and nanocomposites: Structure-Function correlations in electrochemical applications

Abstract

Zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks (Zr-MOFs) have emerged as extremely adaptable materials in electrochemical applications due to their outstanding chemical stability, adjustable porosity, and redox-active behavior. This study presents a detailed analysis of Zr-MOF synthesis methodologies, including solvothermal, green synthesis, mechanochemical approaches, and post-synthetic alterations, focusing on structural variety and tailored functionality. The fundamental electrochemical features of Zr-MOFs, such as charge transport, ion diffusion, and electrochemical stability, are thoroughly investigated, as well as strategies for improving performance through nanocomposite creation with conductive materials such as graphene and carbon nanotubes. Zr-MOFs' multifunctionality is further explored through their use in environmental electrochemical sensing to detect harmful contaminants and energy-related technologies such as supercapacitors, batteries, and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Despite their enormous promise, issues such as scalability, low intrinsic conductivity, and long-term operating stability restrict their broad implementation. Future directions include the development of conductive Zr-MOFs, sustainable large-scale production, integration into next-generation flexible electronics, and electrochemical pollutant degradation. By overcoming these problems, Zr-MOFs could be a game-changing platform for developing sustainable energy storage and environmental remediation technologies.