Summary
UCLA researchers in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry have developed a series of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) with unique topologies, structures, and pore sizes, thereby, making these materials more versatile in applications such as gas storage and separation.
Background
Open framework materials such as zeolitic inmiazolate frameworks (ZIFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous in nature, highly stable, and therefore, have a wide range of industrial applications. Such applications include gas storage and separation, chemical and biological sensing, molecular reorganization as well as in the catalysis of reactions. The porous characteristics of these open frameworks allow for a large surface area, thus increasing its storage capacity. There is a large interest in the development of these materials though chemical modifications, especially modifying these materials for enhanced pore size and surface area. Newly generated MOFs with unique shapes and greater pores will further widen the use of these materials.
Innovation
Dr. Omar Yaghi and colleagues at UCLA have developed new MOF materials with greater surface area and storage capacity compared to previously generated MOFs. The methods used by Dr. Yaghi have expanded the applications of use of MOFs and offers a new platform into the further development of MOF based materials.
Applications
- Catalyst for chemical reactions
- Fuel Storage
- Gas separation, purification, and adsorption
Advantages
- Materials are easily produced
- MOF show greater surface area and pore size
- High chemical and temperature stability
State Of Development
Several open framework materials have been successfully synthesized, characterized, and activated.