Progress in metal-organic frameworks facilitated mercury detection and removal

Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are noted as exceptional candidates towards the detection and removal of specific analytes. MOFs were reported in particular for the detection/removal of environmental contaminants, such as heavy metal ions, toxic anions, hazardous gases, explosives, etc. Among heavy metal ions, mercury has been noted as a global hazard because of its high toxicity in the elemental (Hg⁰), divalent cationic (Hg²⁺), and methyl mercury (CH₃Hg⁺) forms. To secure the environment and living organisms, many countries have imposed stringent regulations to monitor mercury at all costs. Regarding the detection/removal requirements of mercury, researchers have proposed and reported all kinds of MOFs-based luminescent/non-luminescent probes towards mercury. This review provides valuable information about the MOFs which have been engaged in detection and removal of elemental mercury and Hg²⁺ ions. Moreover, the involved mechanisms or adsorption isotherms related to sensors or removal studies are clarified for the readers. Finally, advantages and limitations of MOFs in mercury detection/removal are described together with future scopes.