Charging the future: The revolution of covalent organic frameworks in the path to batteries and supercapacitors

Abstract

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), renowned for their extensive surface area, tunable porosity, and low density, are gaining prominence in the realm of electrochemical energy storage. Recent progress in fabricating high-performance electrodes derived from COFs has catalyzed novel methodologies in synthesis, linker selection, and structural design. In light of the increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly energy generation, there has been a significant shift in scientific investigations towards utilizing porous substances for the purposes of storing and transforming energy through electrochemical means. In this context, significant efforts have been devoted to the preparation of the latest advancements in tailoring COF materials for different energy storage applications, offering a comprehensive exploration of their functional mechanisms and manufacturing processes. Emphasizing notable strides in supercapacitors and diverse rechargeable battery technologies, the article delves into the fundamental design strategies and their direct impact on the electrochemical efficacy of these systems. In the final segment, we address the prevailing challenges confronting COFs and propose prospective avenues to advance COF research in the burgeoning domain of emerging energy technologies. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd