The realization of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as electronic conductors is a highly sought after goal, which has the potential to revolutionize the areas of catalysis, solid-state sensors and solar energy conversion devices. To date, the design and synthesis of MOFs that exhibit through-framework conduction has been limited; however, significant interest is now emerging owing to the fascinating prospects for integrating multiple functions. This highlight article introduces the field of conducting nanoporous materials and discusses recent specific examples along with key design features that will underlie future developments in the area.
A new three-dimensional coordination framework, [Zn 4 (tbazip) 3 (bpe) 2 (OH) 2 ]ÁbpeÁ{solvent} (where bpe ¼ 1,2-di(4-pyridyl) ethene) containing the novel photoactive ligand tbazip (tbazip ¼ 5-((4-tert-butyl)phenylazo)isophthalic acid) has been synthesised and crystallographically characterised. The photoactivity of discrete tbazip was investigated and compared with its photoactivity while incorporated within the framework. The effect of isomerisation of the incorporated azobenzene on the chemical and physical properties of the framework were investigated using UV-vis and Raman spectroscopies. The framework is porous only to hydrogen gas at 77 K, but displayed an appreciable uptake for CO 2 at 195 K.
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