Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline materials built from metal ions or clusters (nodes) linked by organic molecules (linkers) into 1D, 2D, or 3D networks with permanent porosity. They are a subclass of coordination networks—coordination polymers extended in multiple dimensions—with the distinguishing feature of retaining internal voids or pores.

Because of their modular design, MOFs are often referred to as “designer sponges” at the atomic scale. Chemists can choose metal nodes and organic linkers to tune pore size, shape, and chemical functionality (this idea is central in “reticular chemistry”).

Key structural features

Nodes and Linkers

Metal nodes (ions or clusters) serve as junction points.

Organic linkers (e.g. carboxylates, imidazolates) bridge between the metal node

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