Metal-organic frameworks as photocatalysts for aerobic oxidation reactions

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are emerging as one of the most intriguing classes of heterogeneous photocatalysts owing to their abundant structures, tunable porosity, and versatile functions. The advantages of bottom-up design and reticular synthesis render MOF materials with desired photocatalytic properties for targeted reactions. In this review, we discussed the design and synthesis of MOF-based photocatalysts as well as strategies for enhancing photocatalytic performance. Recent progress on MOFs as platforms for photocatalytic aerobic oxidation reactions was summarized and categorized according to the types of bond formation. We hope this review will give an in-depth insight into MOF-based photocatalytic systems for not only aerobic oxidation reactions but also other organic transformations. A brief outlook on the challenges and opportunities of MOFs as heterogeneous photocatalysts is provided at the end of the review.