Metal–Organic Frameworks in Analytical Science: Current Applications and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a revolutionary class of porous crystalline materials with exceptional properties that have transformed analytical science. This comprehensive review examines the current applications of MOFs in analytical chemistry, focusing on their roles in sample preparation, sensing, separation, and detection. The unique characteristics of MOFs, including high surface area (up to 7000 m²/g), tunable pore sizes (0.3-10 nm), and customizable functionality, make them ideal candidates for various analytical applications. This review covers recent advances in MOF-based solid-phase extraction (SPE), chromatographic separations, electrochemical sensors, and optical sensors. We also discuss the integration of MOFs with modern analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and gas chromatography (GC). Future perspectives highlight emerging trends in MOF development, including the design of stimuli-responsive MOFs, multifunctional MOF composites, and their potential in emerging analytical challenges such as environmental monitoring and clinical diagnostics. The review concludes with a critical assessment of current limitations and future research directions that could further enhance the impact of MOFs in analytical science.