Critical Applications of Metal-Organic Framework Materials in Redox Flow, Solid-State, and Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Leicester International Institute, Dalian University of Technology, 124221 Panjin, China

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Abstract

The global energy landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, rendering the development of efficient electrochemical energy storage technologies an urgent imperative. Currently, redox flow batteries, solid-state lithium metal batteries, and lithium-sulfur batteries represent highly promising energy storage solutions; however, their practical implementation remains hindered by numerous obstacles. The fundamental bottlenecks are frequently attributed to the failure of mass transport regulation at membrane or interfaces, exemplified by poor ion selectivity or compromised interfacial mechanical integrity. The transition to sustainable energy demands efficient storage technologies. While redox flow, solid-state lithium metal, and lithium-sulfur batteries are promising, their performance is currently limited by mass transport and interfacial instability. Metal-Organic Frameworks offer a solution through their highly tunable pore structures. This review analyzes it utility across these systems: they act as ion sieves to curb cross-contamination and boost kinetics in redox flow batteries; reinforce electrolytes to balance conductivity and suppress dendrites in solid-state lithium cells; and mitigate the shuttle effect in lithium-sulfur batteries via physical and chemical trapping. Despite these technical advances, the paper identifies high manufacturing costs and longterm operational stability as key remaining hurdles for commercial viability.