Recent progress and prospects in active anion-bearing C12A7-mediated chemical reactions

Porous materials have received considerable attention because their unique porous or cage structures can trap different kinds of active species, allowing for unparalleled potential in chemical transformation. As a new type of nanoporous material, 12CaO & BULL;7Al(2)O(3) (C12A7) features a positively charged framework that comprises 3D-connected nanocage structures with an inner diameter of 0.4 nm. A diversity of anions can be easily incorporated into the nanocage structures, endowing C12A7 with various novel physical and chemical properties. In this study, we exhaustively summarize the recent advances in active anions embedded in C12A7 as catalysts or reagents for multiple chemical reactions. Moreover, the diverse routes for the preparation of active species, such as electrons, anions, and radicals, trapped in the cages of C12A7 are itemized elaborately. The roles of the incorporated anions in C12A7 are discussed in depth for chemical transformation. Finally, a perspective on the challenges and developments for future research on active anion-bearing C12A7 materials is proposed. This review provides basic guidance for the rational design and construction of high-performance C12A7-based materials in various applications, especially heterogeneous catalysis.