Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) Morphology Control: Recent Progress and Challenges

As the field of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) continues marching toward practical applications, there is a need to move beyond design of the crystal structure. Morphological control of MOFs is the key to achieving optimal bed-packing, expression of crystallographic faces showing desired reactivity, and tailoring guest diffusion. The vast majority of morphology control in MOFs has been achieved empirically through manipulation of synthetic variables. Although this approach has met with considerable success, the potential for designed control offers a more complete solution to not only manipulate morphology, but also to alter it purposefully to optimize properties. This review introduces fundamental aspects and current methods for the precise control of crystal morphology in the context of MOFs and covers the majority of work conducted to date as well as opportunities for future development.