Towards green energy: Progress in metal-organic framework and their derived catalysts for hydrogen production through water-splitting via the hydrogen evolution reaction

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a promising technology for generating hydrogen through electrocatalytic water splitting, addressing global energy demands. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives have gained considerable attention as catalysts in HER due to their unique properties, including high surface area, tunable porosity, and modifiable metal centers. This review presents recent progress in MOF-based electrocatalysts for hydrogen production and highlights their performances as well as property inhancement by various MOF-modifications techniques. Additionally, The HER mechanisms are discussed, with emphasis on the critical role of ΔGH_ads and electronic structure modulation, with or without doping of elements in optimizing catalytic activity. However, challenges remain regarding scalability, stability in both acidic and alkaline conditions, and cost-effectiveness. Finally, the prospects of MOF-based catalysts in HER and potential solutions to overcome these drawbacks are discussed to promote sustainable and alternative clean energy.