Metal-organic frameworks(MOFs) based on f block elements offer promise of a greater range of interesting materials than their transition metal counterparts.  

MOFs have attracted much attention in recent years, due to their potential for use as, for example, gas (Hydrogen) storage systems.   Most of the MOFs that have been prepared are based on transition metals, however, f elements, with a greater variety of geometries than transition metals, can be used to prepare a greater range of MOFs.

In their CrystEngComm Highlight, Christopher Cahill and co-workers (The George Washington University, and Carnegie Institute of Washington, USA) discuss the recent advances in utilising this versatility in geometry to controlling the structural features of these f elements, in the preparation of useful MOFs.  The relevance of f elements to sensor and display technologies means that MOFs based on these elements have the potential of interesting luminescence properties. 

The next stage in the development of the designed synthesis of these materials will be in situ ligand synthesis, says Cahill.