Recent Updates in Using Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) For Nitrogen Compounds Removal from Liquid Fuels

Khedr, Abdalla M.; Elsalahawy, Eman E.; El-Khalafy, Sahar H.; Abdel-Gawad, Hassan; Abdelhameed, Reda M.

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2025.431885.12465

Recent Updates in Using Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) For Nitrogen Compounds Removal from Liquid Fuels

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

¹ Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University

² Applied Organic Chemistry Department, Chemical Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt

10.21608/ejchem.2025.431885.12465

Abstract

The increasing demand for ultra-clean fuels has driven extensive research into efficient methods for removing nitrogen-containing compounds (NCCs) from liquid fuels. This review focuses on enhancing the adsorption capacity and reusability of MOFs and their composites, especially those with functionalized sites, show promise in effectively removing nitrogenous compounds like indole and quinoline. Studies highlight the role of hydrogen bonding and acid-base interactions in the adsorption process, and strategies like functionalizing MOF linkers and metal sites are being explored to improve performance. MOF composites, like ZIF-67(x) @H2N-MIL-125, have demonstrated remarkable adsorption capacities for indole removal from fuel. Modifying MOFs with functional groups, like -COOH, on both the linker and metal sites can significantly improve the removal of nitrogen-containing compounds, especially neutral ones. MOFs with open metal sites, like MIL-101(Cr), are also being investigated for their potential in adsorptive denitrogenation. The adsorption of nitrogenous substances depends critically on hydrogen bonding, especially when MOFs are functionalized with amino groups. Acid-base interactions between the MOF and nitrogen-containing compounds can also contribute to the adsorption process. MOFs can be reused through solvent washing, making them a sustainable option for fuel purification. The recyclability of MOF materials, like BITSH-1, has been demonstrated for up to four cycles in thiophene removal. In summary, recent advancements in MOF technology, particularly the use of MOF composites and functionalized materials, offer promising solutions for the effective and sustainable removal of N-compounds from liquid fuels. Finally, the review outlines current challenges, such as scalability and structural durability, and proposes future directions toward the design of robust, cost-effective, and sustainable MOF-based materials for industrial fuel purification.

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