Advances in reticular materials for sustainable rare earth element recovery

Abstract

The rapid growth of the high-tech industry has resulted in an unprecedented demand for rare earth elements (REEs) due to their unique and irreplaceable properties. However, the limited reserves and non-renewable nature of REEs have created a significant imbalance between supply and demand. Recycling and separation of REEs from various industrial and mining wastes are crucial in alleviating the supply pressure and promoting sustainable development. Recently, utilizing reticular materials for REE recovery has addressed considerable interest. These materials are noted for their high adsorption capacity, selectivity, and chemical stability, making them ideal candidates for efficient REE recycling. This review provides a brief overview of the design concepts and synthesis methods for chemically stable reticular materials, including metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs). It then delves into recent advancements in the use of reticular materials for effective REE recovery, summarizing key aspects such as adsorption capacity, efficiency, and influencing factors. Additionally, it highlights the interaction mechanisms between reticular materials and REEs. Finally, it offers insights into the foundational challenges and future research directions. This review aims to contribute to the ongoing development and design of reticular materials for efficient REE recycling.