Boosting the electrochemical energy storage and conversion performance by structural distortion in metal–organic frameworks.

A well-designed lattice distortion strategy for pristine MOFs is reported for the first time. The structurally distorted MOFs show enhanced electrochemical properties in the integration of energy storage and conversion. [Display omitted] • An elaborate lattice distortion strategy of pristine MOFs is firstly reported. • Structurally distorted MOFs show enhanced electrochemical performance. • The lattice distortion process is characterized by various techniques such as NPD. • Surface-controlled Faradaic reactions during energy storage and conversion can be realized. The engineering of multifunctional materials applied to energy storage and conversion remains an important challenge in addressing the intermittency issues associated with natural energy resources. Herein, we have achieved an overall improvement in the electrochemical performance of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) through an elaborate lattice distortion strategy. Compared to the ordered lattice in conventional materials, the partially distorted lattice in the newly synthesized MOFs contributes a completely new kinetics feature: a surface-controlled and high-rate Faradaic reaction. In-situ water splitting can be achieved by employing the lattice-distorted MOF as both the anode of an asymmetric supercapacitor and electrocatalyst, thereby converting intermittent clean energy into electrochemical energy. The lattice distortion strategy in this work provides new insight into the functional design of MOFs, and may provide a novel and economically sound strategy for practical energy sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]