MOF-303: Synthetic Strategies, One-Dimensional Hydrophilic Channels, and Cross-Field Applications

Abstract MOF-303 is an aluminum-based metal−organic framework constructed from Al metal nodes and 1H-pyrazole-3,5-dicarboxylic acid (HPDC) ligands through coordination self-assembly. Its framework unfolds along the crystallographic “c” direction into one-dimensional rhombic/nearly square hydrophilic channels, with exposed bridging −OH and pyrazolic N−H polar sites on the channel walls, thereby exhibiting strong affinity toward water molecules and various polar small molecules along with a low desorption energy barrier. Leveraging its high specific surface area, exceptional thermal and chemical stability, inexpensive aluminum precursors, and environmentally benign aqueous-phase synthesis, MOF-303 has rapidly become a research hotspot in the international MOF community since its first report in 2018. However, a systematic review of its synthesis strategies and multi-field application advances is still lacking at present. This article comprehensively reviews the four main synthetic methods for MOF-303microwave-assisted, solvothermal, flask reflux, and vessel reflux approachesalong with their process characteristics and systematically summarizes the research progress of this material in atmospheric water harvesting, seawater desalination, heavy metal ion recovery, oil−water separation, harmful gas adsorption, biomedical drug delivery, and solar steam generation. Finally, this article deeply analyzes the common challenges and specific bottlenecks faced by MOF-303 across various application scenarios and outlines its future development directions from three dimensionsscalable production optimization, functional material modification, and long-term application validationaiming to provide systematic reference and insights for transitioning MOF-303 from laboratory research toward industrial implementation.