MOFs – next generation smart materials

MOFs are an advanced structure that is extremely ordered, porous and customisable. They grow in a crystal form and are extremely flexible, especially when combined with nanoparticles for additional functionality or attributes.

Diagram depicting molecules flowing through MOFs, a special material that can capture or allow certain sized molecules to pass through.

In this case larger green molecules are excluded from the MOF and don't interact with it. Smaller red molecules interact with the MOF and are changed into blue molecules by it.

Made of metals joined to each other by organic linkers, MOFs are crystalline powders full of holes. These molecular-sized holes can store, separate, release or protect just about anything.

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MOFs have demonstrated benefits for:

• Gas storage and delivery, and natural gas storage and purification
• Carbon capture and storage
• Batteries and catalysts
• Horticulture
• Pharmaceutics
• Fuel production
• Water purification
• Solvent or heavy metal recovery
• Sensors
• Membranes.

MOFs can be used to develop materials that:

• Store gases in a way that is safer and more portable
• Separate gases or liquids from each other with greater performance and longevity than existing methods
• Protect biomolecules in harsh conditions
• Sense and capture substances at concentrations well below those previously possible
• Purify water, removing heavy metal, oil or toxins.

We’re open to organisations interested in collaborating with us on further research and applications for MOFs, or companies licensing the technology for use in their own business.