Metal–organic framework-based hybrids with photon upconversion

Upconversion materials (UCMs) featuring an anti-Stokes type emission establish them as an important category of photoluminescent materials. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are rapidly gaining prominence as a class of versatile materials with favourable physical and chemical properties, including high porosity, controllable pore size, flexible design, and diverse functional sites. To endow MOFs with upconversion capability and improve the properties and performance of UCMs, the hybrids integrating UCMs and MOFs are proven to be successful. This review focuses on the research advancements of upconverting MOF-based hybrids, encompassing classifications, luminescence mechanisms, designs, properties, and applications in energy, catalysis, and biomedical fields. The analyses on the functions of upconversion and MOFs, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of various upconverting MOF-based hybrids, are included. Future research directions spanning from properties and performance to applications are explored. This review will be valuable in highlighting the research accomplishments, inspiring more ideas, facilitating deeper investigations in diverse avenues, and further advancing the research field.