Post-Synthesis modification of metal-organic frameworks using Schiff base complexes for various catalytic applications

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), built through the interconnection between metal clusters and di- to polytopic organic linkers, have porous crystalline and tunable structures with many meritful properties such as robustness, high surface area/porosity, and adjustable pore size. As such, MOFs have drawn a great deal of attention in the design of the advanced heterogeneous catalytic materials. As the distribution of the catalytically active sites can be controlled further via post-synthesis modification (PSM), the use of Schiff base for such PSM is considered a promising strategy to develop highly active as well as stable catalysts. The great utility of Schiff base complex-anchored MOF is in fact recognized from various catalytic reactions (e.g., coupling, epoxidation, hydrogenation, and oxidation) through efficient coordination of metal ions. These catalysts are advantageous to overcome the common limitations of both homogeneous catalysis (e.g., poor recyclability as well as reusability) and heterogeneous catalysis (e.g., low activity). This review is hence expected to deliver actionable knowledge for the development of highly effective Schiff base/MOF catalysts via PSM for diverse catalytic applications.