Recent advances in MOF-based composites for the detection and adsorptive removal of Pb(II) ions in aqueous phase

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their composites offer promising solutions for the detection and adsorption of lead (Pb 2+ ) ions, posing health risks associated with lead contamination in water. With tunable porosity, high surface area, and inherent fluorescence, MOFs can selectively detect and remove Pb 2+ ions across various environmental conditions. This article describes the key strategies for designing MOFs with optimal adsorption properties and integrating materials like reduced graphene oxide (rGO), chitosan, cellulose, and magnetic nanoparticles to enhance capacity, selectivity, and stability. Mechanistic insights into Pb 2+ adsorption reveal that both chemisorption and physisorption processes contribute to effective lead removal, particularly through tailored MOF structures with specific ligands and metal nodes. Recent advancements include the development of portable, point-of-care devices based on MOFs, enabling rapid, on-site detection and analysis of Pb 2+ contamination. MOF-based systems thus hold significant potential as practical tools for addressing lead pollution in water, combining sensitivity, selectivity, and scalability in diverse environmental settings. • Combining MOFs with materials like graphene oxide for improved Pb(II) ion detection and adsorption. • Exploring MOF’s structure, surface area, and fluorescence in Pb(II) ion sensing and removal. • Examining chemisorption and physisorption in Pb(II) ion removal by MOFs and hybrids. • Enhancing Pb(II) ion adsorption through MOF functionalization and composites. • Practical use of MOF-based hybrids for Pb(II) ion contamination in water systems.