Metal-Organic frameworks for optical sensor arrays

Precisely identifying subtle structural distinctions among various analytes remains a crucial yet difficult endeavor, primarily due to their extensive diversity, structural resemblance, and the potential for mutual interference. Traditional sensors, which operate on the “lock-and-key” principle, offer high selectivity and specificity for detecting particular analytes. However, this design makes them unsuitable for the simultaneous detection of multiple analytes. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted considerable interest in the realm of optical sensor arrays due to their diverse metal nodes and ligands, as well as the guest species that can be encapsulated within their channels or pores. This versatility makes MOFs highly advantageous for developing multi-channel single-sensing-element sensor arrays. The primary emphasis of this comprehensive review is on the intrinsic structure-performance relationship and development status of MOF-based optical sensor arrays. First, this review offers a concise explanation of the underlying theory and operational steps involved in optical sensor arrays. Second, the construction strategies for cross-reactive sensing elements are thoroughly presented. Third, the applications of MOF-based optical sensor arrays in identifying and detecting target analytes are explored comprehensively. This includes their use in environmental monitoring, disease diagnosis, food quality assessment, and the analysis of complex systems. Finally, the existing limitations and future research opportunities concerning MOF-based optical sensor arrays are thoroughly examined.