Luminescent metal–organic framework thin films: From preparation to biomedical sensing applications

Abstract

Metal-organic framework (MOF) thin films are receiving increasing attention in a number of different application fields, such as optoelectronics, gas separation, catalysis electronic devices, and biomedicine. In particular, their tunable composition and structure, accessible metal sites and potential for post-synthetic modification for molecular recognition make MOF thin films promising candidates for biosensing applications. Compared with solution-based powdery probes, film-based probes have distinct advantages of good stability and portability, tunable shape and size, real-time detection, non-invasion, extensive suitability in gas/vapor sensing, and recycling. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in luminescent MOF thin films, including the fabrication methods and origins of luminescence. Specifically, luminescent MOF thin films as biosensors for temperature, ions, gases and biomolecules are highlighted.