Abstract:
Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) are a rapidly emerging class of crystalline, cross-linked polymers. Their high porosity, large surface area, and versatile chemical functionality make them valuable for material development. Enhancing the electronic conductivity and structural robustness of COF is essential for broadening its use in energy storage and electronic devices[1]. This study presents a novel strategy for transforming two-dimensional COFs into quasi-three-dimensional structures through covalent knitting[2]. This versatile approach enables the generation of new three-dimensional COFs via a straightforward process. The resulting highly ordered 3D COF demonstrates a significant increase in electronic conductivity, from 10⁻⁹ to 10⁻² S m⁻¹.
The enhanced conductivity is attributed to favorable Fermi level modifications. At an electronic level, this is caused by the polarons generated by the covalent integration of conductive modules, which provide new conduction pathways. As a recent development on this concept, a newer strategy to further enhance conductivity will also be presented.
The study highlights a transformative approach to converting 2D COFs into highly ordered and conductive 3D materials, offering a promising platform for next-generation energy storage systems and electronic applications.
References
[1] S. Duhović, M. Dincă, et al. Chem. Mater. 2015, 27(16), 5487−5490.