Paving\nMetal–Organic Frameworks with Upconversion\nNanoparticles via Self-Assembly

Abstract

The combination of\nmetal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and luminescent\nnanomaterials with upconversion characteristics could enable the development\nof new nanomaterials and applications in information security, optical\nsensing, and theranostics. However, currently available methods are\nnot ideally suitable for fabricating composites of MOF and upconversion\nnanomaterial, and incorporating upconversion nanomaterials with MOFs\nin a controllable manner remains challenging. Here, we demonstrate\nan in situ self-assembly route to the nanocomposites in which MOFs\nare homogeneously paved with upconversion nanoparticles. Without additional\nassistance, this strategy, mainly driven by electrostatic interactions,\ncan be used to incorporate different upconversion nanoparticles with\ndiverse MOFs. The as-synthesized composites can be further used to\nconstruct composites with unique structures, such as MOF@upconversion\nnanoparticles@MOF sandwiched nanocomposites, and would be useful for\napplications including luminescence-monitored drug delivery, anticounterfeiting,\nand photodynamic therapy. These findings should shed light on new\navenues for fabricating multifunctional composites of MOF and upconversion\nnanomaterials for varied applications.