Green Synthesis of Bio-based Metal–Organic Frameworks

Bio-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) incorporate multi-directional organic ligands, such as amino acids, various aliphatic diacids, cyclodextrins (CDs), and nucleobases, that are naturally occurring or obtainable from biomass. This chapter discusses various strategies that have been explored to achieve a scalable green synthesis of MOFs in general and bio-based MOFs in particular. While the nature of the employed organic ligands is the main factor determining whether or not a MOF can be considered bio-based, the sustainability and safety of the metal ions used, and their sources, are also important. Thus, some attention is given to metal ion considerations. Finally, we address challenges for the future development of bio-based MOFs, including stability issues, scalability and cost, and their performance as compared with competing alternative materials.