Latest developments in the synthesis of metal–organic frameworks and their hybrids for hydrogen storage

Abstract

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising materials for hydrogen (H₂) storage due to their versatile structures, high surface areas and substantial pore volumes. This paper provides a comprehensive review of MOF synthesis and characterization, as well as their practical applications for H₂ storage. We explore various MOF synthesis techniques, highlighting their impact on the nanopore structure and functionality. Special emphasis is placed on strategies for enhancing H₂ storage capacities by increasing specific surface areas, optimizing pore size distributions, and facilitating H₂ release by improving thermal conductivity. Key advances in MOF-based hybrids, such as MOFs combined with carbonaceous materials, metals or other inorganic materials, are discussed. This review also addresses the effectiveness of linker functionalization and the introduction of unsaturated metal centers to optimize H₂ storage under ambient conditions. We conclude that the development of competitive MOF-based hybrids, particularly those that incorporate carbons, offers significant potential for improving H₂ storage and recovery, enhancing thermal stability and increasing thermal conductivity. These advancements are in line with the US Department of Energy (DOE) specifications and pave the way for future research into the optimization of MOFs for practical H₂ storage applications.