Directed Regulation of Proton Transport Pathways inMOF-808

The directed regulation of proton transport pathways in proton conductors, facilitated by the well-defined crystal structures of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), is important for the development of advanced materials. In this study, <b>MOF-808-2.5SO</b>_<b>4</b><b>-His</b> is synthesized by progressive directed modification on the framework using functional molecules. The incorporation of sulfate and imidazole groups into <b>MOF-808-2.5SO</b>_<b>4</b><b>-His</b> results in a high proton conductivity of 1.37 × 10^–2 S cm^–1 at 70 °C and 98% relative humidity (RH). The analysis of temperature-dependent proton conductivity indicates that <b>MOF-808-2.5SO</b>_<b>4</b><b>-His</b> facilitates proton transport through the Grotthuss mechanism at 98% RH and the temperature range of 30–70 °C. Additionally, <b>MOF-808-2.5SO</b>_<b>4</b><b>-His</b> exhibits good cycling stability and durability in performance. This feasible approach enhances the comprehension of proton transfer mechanism and promotes the development of viable strategies for controllable construction of proton conductors.