Diverse Transformations of MOFs Depending on the Structure of Thiol-Group Agents

Transformation provides infinite possibilities for tailoring the diversity of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) across morphology, structure, and pore size. Among the transformation strategies, controlled reduction of the metal valence state constitutes a critical pathway. However, the critical role of the reducing agent's structure in directing MOF transformations remains unexplored. Herein, we report a novel structural engineering strategy for precisely guiding the directional transformation of a MOF based on the structure of thiol-group molecules. Remarkably, Cu-BTC exhibits structurally dependent evolution with thiol-group agents in morphology, component, and pore size. These differential outcomes originate from thiol-mediated redox modulation mechanisms because of the spatial arrangement of thiol-group molecules with the Cu ion. The optimized MOF materials exhibit enhanced performance in applications such as separation and catalysis.