The current status of research in the design of heterogeneous catalysts based on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their application in various processes is discussed. Particular attention is given to reactions pertaining to selective catalysis. It has been shown that metal-organic frameworks successfully compete with the classical molecular sieves zeolites in this area. However, MOFs are still not able to replace these inorganic systems in the cases when a catalytic reaction requires severe conditions. Their primary fields of application are fine organic synthesis and enantioselective catalysis, since the relevant catalytic processes can be carried out under mild conditions.

The fabrication of integrated ZIF-8 membranes via a direct in situ crystallization on a porous polyacrylonitrile material and a composite aluminum zirconate based support was performed for the first time. A novel free-seeding synthetic procedure was accomplished without an elevated temperature and autogeneous pressure. The proper choice of the support in combination with the appropriate synthesis procedure allowed for the preparation of phase-pure polycrystalline ZIF-8 membranes. The gas permeation experiments indicated that dense ZIF-8 selective layers, including a multi-layer coating, were perfectly grown on both the supports. Our results revealed a strong impact of the support on the gas separation characteristics of the resulting ZIF-8 membranes.

Currently, metal–organic frame works (MOFs) as novel hybrid nanoporous materials are a top research interest, including endeavors in heterogeneous catalysis. MOF materials are promising heterogeneous catalytic systems due to their unique characteristics, such as a highly ordered structure, a record high surface area and a compositional diversity, which can be precisely tailored. Very recently, these metal-organic matrices have been proven as promising catalysts for biomass conversion into value-added products. The relevant publications show that the structure of MOFs can contribute essentially to the advanced catalytic performance in processes of biomass refining. This review aims at the consideration of the different ways for the rational design of MOF catalysts for biomass processing. The particular characteristics and peculiarities of the behavior of different MOF based catalytic systems including hybrid nanomaterials and composites will be also discussed by illustrating their outstanding performance with appropriate examples relevant to biomass catalytic processing.

Novel nanohybrid materials were prepared by immobilizing Co nanoparticles on a microporous framework MIL-53(Al) as a porous host matrix. The synthesized cobalt-containing materials were characterized by XRD, STEM, and oxygen titration. The catalytic performance of Co@MIL-53(Al) nanohybrids was examined in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) for the first time. A higher selectivity to C₅₊ hydrocarbons and lower selectivity to methane for Co@MIL-53(Al) as compared to conventional Co/Al₂O₃ were observed.