Physics Program Presents

Molecular Architecture: Shaping Tiny Scaffolds to Neutralize Toxic Threats

Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are microscopic, tunable molecular
sponges that chemists can custom-build to store or transform specific
chemicals or gases. MOFs are incredibly useful for trapping greenhouse
gases like carbon dioxide, catalyzing reactions, and storing clean
hydrogen fuel. In MOFs, metals act as connectors, and long, organic
molecules act as wooden sticks; together, they form a Tinkertoy for
chemists. By snapping them together, scientists create minute,
cage-like structures that are almost entirely made of empty space.
These materials are so unbelievably porous that a single gram of MOFs
can have enough internal surface area to cover more than a football
field. To honor their foundational discovery and creation of these
highly versatile materials, the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was
jointly awarded to Dr. Omar M. Yaghi, Dr. Susumu Kitagawa, and Dr.
Richard Robson. This talk will cover their application as powerful
catalysts to chemically break down and degrade deadly chemical warfare
agents like mustard gas and safely neutralize these toxic threats.

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For more information, call 845-758-6822, or e-mail [email protected].

Time: 12:00 pm EST/GMT-5

Location: Brody Lab - Hegeman 107

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