Recent advances in metal-organic frameworks/membranes for adsorption and removal of metal ions

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted extensive research interest because of their high specific surface area, tunable microporosity, low skeleton density and good stability, and they are seen as ideal functional materials for the detection and removal of metal ions. Current research is mainly focused on the trade-off between the permeability and selectivity, and the development of MOFs composites with superior performance to obtain satisfactory adsorption and separation capacity, such as MOFs membranes. In this review, we first summarize the various design and synthesis strategies for MOFs and MOF membrane materials, including with/without solvent, the mechanochemical method, the primary growth method and the secondary growth method. The recent advances in MOFs and MOFs membranes for the adsorption and removal of different types of metal ions are then highlighted. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for the future development of MOFs and MOFs membranes are proposed. This review aims to provide a deep understanding of the rational design and application research of MOFs and MOF membranes and promote development and progress in MOF hybrid materials. [Display omitted] •The synthesis method and modification strategy of MOFs for powder/membrane materials.•Research on the adsorption mechanism of MOFs materials for metal ions.•Overview of the application of MOFs in ion adsorption of different kinds of metal ions.•Issues and future trends in the stability, repeatability, selectivity and commercial availability of MOFs materials.