Single molecule self-forms into a lattice that can self-heal, store gases

Single molecule self-forms into a lattice that can self-heal, store gases
Modes of C–H···N bonds in Pyopen⊃MeCN and crystal-packing diagrams of Pyopen⊃MeCN. (A) Drawings representing the modes of C–H···N bonds in Pyopen⊃MeCN. (B to E) CPK representations of the crystal-packing diagrams of Pyopen⊃MeCN. Orange outlines indicate the C–H···N-bonded roofs and floors in Pyopen⊃MeCN [(B) and (C)], and dashed purple outlines indicate the wall connected to the roof and floor [(B), (C), and (E)]. Credit: (c) Science (2018). DOI: 10.1126/science.aat6394
A team of researchers affiliated with several institutions in Japan has developed a material made from just a single molecule that self-forms into a lattice that can self-heal and store gases. In their paper published in the journal Science, the group describes synthesizing the aromatic molecule, which bears asymmetrical outer shell.

The researchers note that most porous materials are made from linkers and connecting units—metal-organic frameworks are one example. Such frameworks are often custom-developed to allow for storing other material, such as hydrogen, in the pores. The downside to such an approach is the multitude of options available, which requires researchers to spend time screening for the optimal structure. In this new effort, the researchers report on the development of a new porous material made from a single synthesized molecule. They claim it is possible to create a complex, useful type of material without a complex set of building blocks.

The molecule the team made had a symmetrical outer shell, giving it a shape akin to a propeller. It consisted of three polar dipyridylphenyl parts hooked to a middle non-polar mesitylene. In the presence of isopropanol or acetonitrile, it assembled automatically into a network that was held together by hydrogen bonds (non-classical). The researchers note that the bonds were weaker than normal hydrogen bonds but were stable up to 202°C. They further note that other similar-purpose crystals begin to degrade at temperatures of 130°C. Above the stable point, the pores in the crystal started to collapse causing the material to become non-porous—suggesting a means for delivering a material that it has been holding. Interestingly, the researchers found that the pores could be regenerated by cooling the material and treating it with acetonitrile vapor—a form of self-healing.

Read more: Single molecule self-forms into a lattice that can self-heal, store gases

Image courtesy of phys.org

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