Functional mesoporous thin films: synthesis, properties, and applications

Abstract Functional mesoporous thin films, which are characterized by high surface areas, tunable pore sizes, and ordered nanostructures, have emerged as essential materials for a diverse range of applications. In recent years, many major advances have been achieved in the development of new synthetic strategies and exploration of new applications for mesoporous thin films. This review summarizes the developments in the field of mesoporous thin films, providing a comprehensive overview of recent advances in their synthesis, properties, and applications. General fabrication methods, such as chemical solution deposition, electrodeposition, and other new methods, are discussed in detail. The literature concerning the mechanical, thermal, optical, and electronic properties of mesoporous thin films is reviewed, with an emphasis on their role in determining material performance. Several typical mesoporous thin film types are examined, including silica, metal oxides, metals, carbon, and polymers. Finally, the applications for mesoporous thin films in electrocatalysis, energy storage, magnetic devices, sensing, and photocatalysis are described, affording insights into future directions for their design and application.