Microenvironment modulation (MEM) by reticular materials for improved catalysis

Catalyst design and optimization are central to advancing catalytic science. In both enzymatic and homogeneous systems, the microenvironment that creates distinct spatial and electronic configurations around active sites showcases profound influence on catalytic behavior. However, elucidating microenvironment modulation (MEM) in heterogeneous catalysts remains a significant challenge, primarily due to the structural rigidity and limited tailorability of conventional solid materials. Reticular materials, including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), have recently emerged as prominent candidates for heterogeneous catalysis. Their atomic-level structural precision and high degree of tunability render them ideal model systems for MEM around catalytic sites. As such, MOFs and COFs offer unique opportunities to unravel the role of MEM in governing catalytic performance. In this presentation, I will highlight our recent progress in leveraging MEM surrounding catalytic sites based on reticular materials for improving catalysis.

This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFA1500402), the NSFC (22331009 and W2512006).

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