他们在分子世界里“造房子”！解读2025年诺贝尔化学奖

Core Viewpoint - The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Japanese scientist Satoshi Kitagawa, Australian scientist Richard Robson, and American scientist Omar Yaghi for their pioneering contributions to the development of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), which are innovative molecular structures with numerous applications in various fields [1][15]. Group 1: Contributions of Richard Robson - Richard Robson's inspiration for molecular architecture came from a chemistry class in 1974, where he envisioned a method to allow atoms or molecules to connect based on their chemical properties, leading to the creation of new molecular structures [2][5]. - In 1989, Robson published his findings on the potential of molecular networks, predicting that they would endow materials with unprecedented properties [2][5]. Group 2: Contributions of Satoshi Kitagawa - Satoshi Kitagawa built upon Robson's work in the 1990s, focusing on the utility of previously deemed "useless" materials. In 1992, he created a two-dimensional molecular material with cavities capable of accommodating acetone molecules, representing a new design philosophy [6][7]. - In 1997, Kitagawa successfully constructed a three-dimensional MOF structure with intersecting open channels, demonstrating its ability to adsorb and release gases without deformation [7]. Group 3: Contributions of Omar Yaghi - Omar Yaghi coined the term "Metal-Organic Framework (MOF)" in 1995, defining it as a crystal structure composed of metal nodes and organic ligands with regular cavities [8]. - In 1999, Yaghi developed MOF-5, a highly stable framework that maintains its structure even at high temperatures, with an internal surface area equivalent to a football field, significantly surpassing traditional zeolites in gas adsorption capacity [11]. Group 4: Applications and Future Potential of MOFs - Scientists have designed thousands of MOFs for applications in carbon capture, air purification, drug delivery, and energy storage, with some being utilized in semiconductor manufacturing to capture or decompose toxic gases [15]. - The potential of MOFs is considered immense, with some experts believing they could become "materials of the 21st century," addressing critical issues in energy, environment, and health, aligning with the spirit of the Nobel Prize's mission to "benefit humanity" [15].