Metal–organic frameworks are fast emerging as transformative materials with promising applications in catalysis, energy storage, gas capture and drug delivery.
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are fast emerging as transformative materials with promising applications in catalysis, energy storage, gas capture, and drug delivery. Despite their unique properties and high porosity, MOFs have struggled to gain traction in industrial applications due to stability issues and environmental safety concerns. A revolutionary approach now seeks to overcome these hurdles by emphasising sustainability and resilience.
MOFs are known for their tuneable, highly porous structures; however, their sensitivity to environmental factors—such as moisture and oxygen—often leads to chemical and structural changes that undermine their performance. To address these challenges, researchers are championing a "safe and sustainable by design" (SSbD) framework. This strategy focuses on understanding and mitigating the transformation mechanisms of MOFs when exposed to various conditions.
By unravelling the transformation pathways of MOFs under different environmental conditions, we can engineer materials that remain stable and effective even under extreme circumstances. This not only enhances their practical applications but also reinforces our commitment to environmental safety and sustainability
The SSbD framework classifies MOF transformations into four primary categories: chemical, physical, biomolecular, and biological. These transformations can occur throughout the material’s lifecycle—from initial atmospheric exposure to interactions in aqueous and biological environments. By pinpointing the specific conditions that lead to MOF degradation, scientists aim to develop materials that are both recyclable and environmentally benign.
This innovative methodology has garnered strong support from leading experts in the field, including Professor Iseult Lynch and Professor Christian Pfrang from University of Birmingham, whose endorsements highlights the potential impact of this research on the broader scientific and industrial communities.
The collaborative effort from University of Birmingham, University of Cambridge, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar and Diamond Light Source, UK is set to accelerate the industrial adoption of MOFs by ensuring they are both high-performing and ecologically safe. As Dr. Chakraborty remarked, the ultimate objective is to create MOFs that support a circular economy and drive chemical sustainability, paving the way for their widespread use in various sectors. MOFs are on the cusp of becoming integral to future industrial applications, underpinning a new era of sustainable technology and material science.
NERC Independent Research Fellow
Dr Chakraborty is an expert in nanomaterial synthesis, characterization and testing their safety. He is an NERC Independent Research Fellow.
Professor of Environmental Nanosciences
Professor Iseult Lynch is an environmental chemist working at the interface of chemical (and materials) pollution and environmental policy.
Professor of Atmospheric Science
Professor Pfrang's work is focusses on gas-phase and heterogeneous atmospheric chemistry exploring the fate of atmospheric aerosols and their impacts on air quality and climate change.
