From structure to function: Harnessing the ionic conductivity of covalent organic frameworks

Rapid advancements in energy storage technology, driven by a growing demand for energy storage devices, underscore the crucial need to comprehend ionic conduction behavior. Consequently, intensive research on high-performance ionic conductors becomes imperative. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as invaluable materials in the realm of solid-state or quasi-solid-state ion-conduction, leveraging their unique properties such as significant porosity, tunability, and robust physicochemical durability. These distinctive attributes position COFs as promising candidates for the development of electrodes, electrolytes, and separator materials characterized by high capacities, rapid ion transport, and electrochemical stability. This review provides insights into COFs as ionic conductors, discusses recent advancements in COF-based energy storage devices, and explores the influence of structural functionalization, pore size engineering, and dimensional regulation on ionic conduction. Moreover, the review aims to deepen understanding and pave the way for future advancements in the utilization of COFs within energy storage technologies.