Review: Removal of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) from water bodies using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with diverse linkers incorporating periodic elements and demonstrating high adsorption efficiency

Currently, there is a notable increase in endocrine disruptor compounds (EDCs) in the environment and drinking water, causing both direct and indirect harm to human health ranging from mild hypersensitivity to severe reactions. The challenge lies in removing EDCs from municipal water systems, which poses a significant public health issue. Addressing water pollution using sustainable solutions is a substantial undertaking, with adsorption and photodegradation standing out for their cost-effectiveness and simplicity. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a new type of porous material, play a crucial role in these efforts because of their adjustable properties, making them suitable for wastewater treatment. This comprehensive review extensively examines the key characteristics (KCs) of EDCs responsible for disturbing hormone equilibrium in humans and animals. The study further encompasses a thorough investigation of various synthesis techniques, including solvothermal/hydrothermal, electrochemical, and microwave-assisted methods, all of which are integral to MOF production. Additionally, the discourse extends to the meticulous evaluation of MOFs' adsorption efficiency, meticulously scrutinizing factors such as adsorption capacity, surface area, and pore structure. These features are intricately shaped by the employed ligand carboxylate, phosphonate, and imidazole-based linkers, ultimately leading to the formation of s-, p-, and d-metal ion clusters. In its culmination, this review shifts its focus to the strategic implementation of the hard-soft-acid-base (HSAB) principle in the progressive advancement of MOFs. Furthermore, this review briefly touches upon the computational screening of MOF development, comparing the strengths and limitations of experimental, theoretical, and computational methodologies. [Display omitted] •Distribution of natural-synthetic endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) in the waterbody.•Key characteristics (KCs) of EDCs mechanism that affects the endocrine system in the human body.•The capacity of s-block elements for EDC removal from wastewater.•‘Hard soft acid-base (HSAB)’ principle for hydrolytic stability in MOFs structure.