Recent advances in MOF-based composites for the detection and adsorptive removal of Pb(II) ions in aqueous phase

Abstract

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their composites offer promising solutions for the detection and adsorption of lead (Pb²⁺) ions, posing health risks associated with lead contamination in water. With tunable porosity, high surface area, and inherent fluorescence, MOFs can selectively detect and remove Pb²⁺ ions across various environmental conditions. This article describes the key strategies for designing MOFs with optimal adsorption properties and integrating materials like reduced graphene oxide (rGO), chitosan, cellulose, and magnetic nanoparticles to enhance capacity, selectivity, and stability. Mechanistic insights into Pb²⁺ adsorption reveal that both chemisorption and physisorption processes contribute to effective lead removal, particularly through tailored MOF structures with specific ligands and metal nodes. Recent advancements include the development of portable, point-of-care devices based on MOFs, enabling rapid, on-site detection and analysis of Pb²⁺ contamination. MOF-based systems thus hold significant potential as practical tools for addressing lead pollution in water, combining sensitivity, selectivity, and scalability in diverse environmental settings.