Structural Chemistry of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) are a subclass of reticular structures based on tetrahedral four-connected networks of zeolites and minerals. They are composed of transition-metal ions and imidazolate-type linkers, and their pore size and shape, surface area, and functionality can be precisely controlled. Despite their potential, two questions remain unanswered: how to synthesize more diverse ZIF structures and how ZIFs differentiate from other crystalline solids. In other words, how can we use our understanding of their unique structures to better design and synthesize ZIFs? In this Review, we first summarize the methods for synthesizing a wide range of ZIFs. We then review the crystal structure of ZIFs and describe the relationship between their structure and properties using an in-depth analysis. We also discuss several important and intrinsic features that make ZIFs stand out from MOFs and discrete molecular cages. Finally, we outline the future direction for this class of porous crystals.