Research Projects

Metal Organic Frameworks (MOF) are porous coordination polymer compounds with a high porosity and surface area of approximately 700 m2 or g. They are a promising candidate for heavy or noble metal adsorption due to their high surface area and easy functionalization. However, MOFs are often used as powders due to poor dispersion and hydrolytic stability. This proposal aims to create a novel MOF platform that has better hydrostability and regenerative capability. The MOF architecture will be assembled in cartridge sets using scrap metals, offering high specificity towards heavy metal removal with a high adsorption capacity and 95% removal efficiency. The prototype, based on regenerative MOFs, can be customized based on environmental burdens. The major dissemination outcome is expected to be patent submission, prototype development, product optimization, and scientific papers. The proposed treatment of contaminated water using MOFs will benefit industrial areas and civic bodies, as it allows for on-site treatment of heavy metal contamination. The group has extensive experience in materials development and environmental and biological applications, and all necessary equipment and tools are available with the project proposal.