Metal–organic framework radiochromic materials: Recent advances and applications

Photochromic materials, renowned for their reversible light-induced responses, have found widespread applications in areas such as optical storage, photosensitive devices and anti-counterfeiting technologies. Recently, metal-organic framework (MOF) radiochromic materials have attracted increasing attention due to their advantageous properties of good design flexibility, visualization capabilities, cost-effectiveness and rapid radiation response. These properties position MOFs as promising substitutes for traditional commercial radiation detection materials. In this review, we primarily discuss MOF radiation-induced chromic materials, which are driven by photoinduced electron transfer mechanisms resulting in radical generation, characterized by rapid radiation response and structural adaptability. Firstly, we explore the chromic mechanisms, performance evaluation parameters, and structural categories of MOF chromic materials. Subsequently, we discuss their multifunctional applications, followed by an analysis and summary of the modulation of their photoelectric response. Finally, we present our insights into the future development and structural modulation of MOF radiation-induced chromic materials, emphasizing their research significance and potential applications in radiation detection.