# Material Preparation Information File (MPIF): A Community‐Driven Standard for Reporting MOF Syntheses

## TL;DR

The paper introduces a new standard called MPIF to improve the reporting of MOF syntheses for better reproducibility and data sharing.

## Contribution

MPIF is a modular, machine-readable format for documenting MOF synthesis and characterization data.

## Key findings

- MPIF consolidates synthesis protocols and characterization data into a structured format.
- MPIF aligns with existing standards like CIF and AIF to support FAIR data principles.
- A web-based interface has been developed to streamline MPIF creation and editing.

## Abstract

The rapid growth of research on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and related porous materials has highlighted a critical need for standardized reporting of synthetic procedures and material properties. Synthesis consistency is often compromised by incomplete protocols and inconsistent nomenclature, with even well‐established MOFs exhibiting substantial variability depending on subtle and frequently unreported factors. To address this critical challenge, we introduce the Material Preparation Information File (MPIF), a modular, machine‐ and human‐readable format for documenting synthesis protocols alongside key characterization data. Built on the Self‐defining Text Archive and Retrieval (STAR) file architecture, MPIF consolidates essential information, including reagents, conditions, equipment, and handling procedures—into a structured format that supports both digital processing and practical laboratory use. To streamline MPIF creation and editing, a web‐based interface has been developed (mpif.jackdevans.com). By aligning with existing standards such as CIF and AIF, MPIF enables integration with databases, promotes FAIR data principles, and provides a foundation for data‐driven materials discovery, informatics, and automation. We envision MPIF becoming a community‐wide standard for transparent and consistent reporting of MOF and related material syntheses.

The Material Preparation Information File (MPIF) establishes a universal, community‐driven format for documenting the synthesis of metal–organic frameworks and related materials. By capturing complete, machine‐readable synthesis and characterization details, MPIF enhances reproducibility, supports FAIR data sharing, and bridges experimental chemistry with digital materials discovery and automation.