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Switching the Proton Conduction in Nanoporous, Crystalline Materials by Light
Kai Müller1, Julian Helfferich2, Fangli Zhao3
1Institute of Functional Interfaces (IFG), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|January 10, 2018
Summary
This study presents a novel nanoporous material for remote-controlled proton conduction using light. Surface-mounted metal-organic frameworks (SURMOFs) with azobenzene groups switch conductivity between high and low states upon light exposure.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Chemistry
Background:
- Proton conducting nanoporous materials are crucial for energy applications like fuel cells and sensors.
- Controlling proton conductivity dynamically and remotely is a significant challenge in materials science.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a crystalline, nanoporous material with light-controlled proton conduction.
- To investigate the mechanism of photo-induced conductivity modulation in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs).
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of surface-mounted metal-organic frameworks (SURMOFs) incorporating azobenzene side groups.
- Utilizing light-induced reversible isomerization of azobenzene (trans-cis states) to modulate guest molecule interactions.
- Employing quantum chemical calculations to understand the impact of isomerization on proton conductivity.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated light-induced switching of proton conductivity in SURMOFs.
- Observed significantly increased conductivity in the trans state and reduced conductivity in the cis state.
- Quantum chemical calculations revealed stronger hydrogen bonding in the cis state, hindering proton transport.
Conclusions:
- Photoswitchable proton-conducting materials offer dynamic, remote control over conductivity.
- These materials hold promise for advanced, remotely controllable chemical sensors and bio-interfaced devices.
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