Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The objective of the proposed research program is to synthesize a library of novel rare-earth cluster-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with diverse topologies and study how structure affects function related to performance in (1) the photocatalytic detoxification of sulfur mustard, (2) Lewis acid catalysis such as nerve agent detoxification and CO2 cycloaddition, and (3) water adsorption and harvesting.  MOFs are porous and often crystalline materials comprised of inorganic nodes bridged by organic linkers. Rare-earth elements include Sc, Y, and the series of 15 lanthanoids on the periodic table. Several rare-earth clusters are synthetically accessible and can be used as MOF building blocks and their diversity allows for access to unique and intricate MOF structures and topologies, many of which are not accessible using other metal ions on the periodic table. Rare-earth cluster-based MOFs are a relatively unique class of MOFs and novel structures and topologies will be designed and synthesized as part of the proposed research program. In addition, this will be the first time that a connection is made between systematic structural variations and resulting performance of rare-earth cluster-based MOFs in photocatalysis, Lewis acid catalysis, and water adsorption. From a fundamental standpoint, the discovery of new MOFs and understanding structure-function relationships will lead to design rules for creating champion materials for the applications of interest. The research also allows for thorough training of highly qualified personnel (HQP) in inorganic materials chemistry, including hands-on training with several characterization techniques that are relevant to a range of chemical and engineering industries in Canada. On the applied side, the research proposed seeks to develop next generation materials for the detoxification of chemical warfare agents, which is important for the decontamination and disposal of bulk stockpiles of these agents, as well as for incorporation in protective gear for Canadian soldiers and civilians in areas at risk. Furthermore, the same Lewis acidic properties that give rise to champion catalysts for nerve agent detoxification, are important for several industrially relevant chemical transformations, leading to the production of electrolytes for batteries, pharmaceuticals, and polymers. Lastly, by developing new materials for water harvesting from air, and incorporating them into devices that are portable to serve individual dwellings or large enough to be integrated with existing infrastructure, Canadians will gain access to a new freshwater resource. This is important as the current freshwater resources in Canada are threatened by climate change (i.e., fires, flooding, and drought).