Access

Article

Nature Materials 7, 229 - 235 (2008)
Published online: 20 January 2008 | doi:10.1038/nmat2101

Subject Categories: Porous materials | Design synthesis and processing

Mechanical gas capture and release in a network solid via multiple single-crystalline transformations

Brett D. Chandler1, Gary D. Enright2, Konstantin A. Udachin2, Shane Pawsey2, John A. Ripmeester2, David T. Cramb1 & George K. H. Shimizu1

Metal–organic frameworks have demonstrated functionality stemming from both robustness and pliancy and as such, offer promise for a broad range of new materials. The flexible aspect of some of these solids is intriguing for so-called 'smart' materials in that they could structurally respond to an external stimulus. Herein, we present an open-channel metal–organic framework that, on dehydration, shifts structure to form closed pores in the solid. This occurs through multiple single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformations such that snapshots of the mechanism of solid-state conversion can be obtained. Notably, the gas composing the atmosphere during dehydration becomes trapped in the closed pores. On rehydration, the pores open to release the trapped gas. Thus, this new material represents a thermally robust and porous material that is also capable of dynamically capturing and releasing gas in a controlled manner.

MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS

These links to content published by NPG are automatically generated.

RESEARCH

A flexible interpenetrating coordination framework with a bimodal porous functionality

Nature Materials Article (01 Feb 2007)

Gas-induced transformation and expansion of a non-porous organic solid

Nature Materials Letter (01 Feb 2008)

Supplementary Information

Nature Materials Article (01 Oct 2009)

Direct access to thermally stable and highly crystalline mesoporous transition-metal oxides with uniform pores

Nature Materials Article (01 Mar 2008)

See all 8 matches for Research