Design, analysis, and application of metal–organic framework derived carbons

Abstract

Metal–organic framework-derived carbons (MOFdCs) have emerged as a rapidly growing class of porous materials over the past 15 years. Inspired by the principles of templated synthesis used in organic chemistry and nanomaterials, MOFdCs combine the highly tunable features of metal–organic frameworks with the versatility and stability of traditional porous carbon materials. Although many advances in MOFdC applications have been driven by an exploratory approach, there is a growing body of systematic, hypothesis-driven studies of the underlying chemistry and materials science of MOFdC structure, design, and structure–property relationships. This review summarizes developments in the systematic design and characterization of MOFdCs and strategies developed to control the structure of these materials. The role of variables such as pyrolysis temperature, gas environment, and the atomic- and nanoscale structure of the template MOF are described, with particular emphasis on their relationship to MOFdC structure and applications. By focusing on the fundamental principles underpinning MOFdC design, this work will lead to more rationally designed MOFdC materials and greater efficiencies in the development of MOFdCs for a host of applications.