Recent advances in metal-organic frameworks for adsorption heat transformations

This work aims to provide a comprehensive review of both the basic principle and advanced development of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their interactions with water molecules for adsorption heat transformation (AHT) applications related to cooling, heat pump and desalination. Novel porous adsorbents, namely MOFs, are chosen to fabricate the thermal compressor or adsorption bed for improving the efficiency of AHT system. Several functional MOFs and their composites are evaluated in terms of water adsorption isotherms, kinetics and cyclic stability. The hydrophilic and hydrophobic behaviors of MOFs are also shown. The current state of the art of MOF supported AHT systems for cooling, heating and water production is reviewed. In addition, MOFs modification strategies are elaborated to improve the performance of AHT systems. Furthermore, this review discusses the major challenges, possible solutions and opportunities arising in this research area. Finally, the authors provide a guideline for the design and development of MOFs for AHT applications. Based on this review, MOF-based AHT systems are found promising alternative approaches for cooling, heating power and desalinated water production. The design and modification of novel MOFs with enhanced water adsorption behaviors are the key to improve the performances of MOF-assisted AHT system.