Molecular rivets stabilize porous materials against humidity

A water-stable metal–organic framework with suitable pore size and abundant active sites for highly selective CO2 capture – Dalton Transactions (RSC Publishing) DOI:10.1039/D0DT02573J (2020-08-28) As a novel type of porous material, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted extensive attention in the fields of gas storage and separation, catalysis, and sensing due to their diverse topologies, high … Read more

Robots map chemical reaction hyperspaces to unlock complex networks

A team of scientists has developed a robotic system that can map the vast, multidimensional landscapes of chemical reactions, a concept they term “hyperspace.” This automated approach is revolutionizing the traditional understanding of chemical synthesis, moving it from a linear, trial-and-error process to a data-driven science. By systematically exploring thousands of reaction conditions in parallel, … Read more

Biohybrids pioneer sustainable chemical synthesis for the energy frontier

In response to increasing global energy needs and environmental pressures, scientists are developing novel biohybrid systems to create chemicals sustainably. These innovative systems combine non-living (abiotic) materials with living (biotic) components, such as microbes, to drive chemical reactions using renewable energy sources. This approach represents a significant step towards cleaner and more efficient industrial processes, … Read more

Specialized ion channel triggers the Venus flytrap’s rapid snap

Researchers have identified a crucial component in the Venus flytrap’s uniquely rapid and iconic predatory movement. A specialized ion channel, located at the base of the plant’s sensory hairs, acts as a molecular trigger that translates a light touch from an insect into the electrical impulse that causes its leafy trap to snap shut. This … Read more