Next-Generation Metal−Organic Framework-Based Nanocomposites for Integrated Energy Storage and Corrosion Protection: Mechanistic Insights and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Metal−organic framework (MOF)-based nanocomposites have emerged as promising multifunctional materials for integrating high-performance electrochemical energy storage with advanced corrosion protection. Their tunable porous architectures, redox-active metal centers, and functional organic linkers enable efficient ion/electron transport, enhanced interfacial charge transfer, and superior barrier performance. This review critically discusses the structural fundamentals, synthesis strategies, functionalization approaches, and structure−property−performance relationships governing MOF-derived nanocomposites for these dual applications. In energy storage, MOF-derived carbons, metal oxides, sulfides, phosphides, and hybrid heterostructures have demonstrated excellent electrochemical performance, with three-electrode half-cell measurements frequently reporting specific capacitances of 800−2500 F g−1, whereas advanced asymmetric and hybrid full-device configurations have achieved energy densities exceeding 100 Wh kg−1 (up to ∼115 Wh kg−1) while maintaining excellent cycling stability (>90% capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles). These improvements arise from hierarchical porosity, defect engineering, heterointerface design, and enhanced electrical conductivity. In corrosion protection, MOF−polymer and MOF−epoxy hybrid coatings exhibit superior barrier properties, chloride-ion trapping, controlled inhibitor release, and pH-responsive self-healing behavior. Depending on the substrate, coating formulation, exposure environment, and corrosion evaluation methodology (e.g., potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, immersion, or salt-spray testing), several studies have reported substantial improvements in corrosion resistance, with reductions in corrosion rates of up to approximately 90% compared with conventional coatings under specific experimental conditions. However, these improvements are highly dependent on the testing parameters and material systems employed and should not be considered universally applicable. Unlike previous reviews, this work establishes a classification framework that differentiates multifunctional materials evaluated independently from genuinely integrated energy−protection systems validated through unified experimental approaches. Finally, the review discusses key challenges associated with scalability, long-term durability, reproducibility, and industrial implementation while highlighting future opportunities in AI-assisted materials design, green synthesis, multiscale modeling, and standardized testing toward the development of sustainable next-generation multifunctional MOF-based systems.