| Our research involves the solvothermal synthesis and characterization of new 3D open-framework and low dimensionality inorganic materials. The synthesis of these types of structures has received a great deal of attention in recent years owing to their useful properties and applications, such as interesting magnetic behavior and use in catalysis and separation. We are currently focusing on lower group 14 elements and transition metals to prepare structures that are analogous to aluminosilicate zeolites. More specifically, we are developing a new methodology of anionic templating for the synthesis of cationic open-framework and layered materials. These new extended and open-framework materials have potential use in anion-based applications, such as new catalysts for anionic chemical reactions or as sorbents for the remediation of anionic chemical waste. We also use organic linkers for the synthesis of metal-organic framework materials. These materials may have advantageous adsorption properties, such as storage of hydrogen and other gases. The size and shape of these open materials, together with their magnetic properties, may make them useful as selective chemosensors.; We have successfully synthesized a new cationic layered lead fluoride material, Pb3F5NO3, which we denote "BING-5". This structure is characterized by a variety of solid state techniques, including: single crystal X-Ray diffraction, powder X-Ray diffraction, thermal analyses, electron microscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, NMR and anion-exchange. The material is stable to 450°C, which is vastly superior to organic resins that are still the standard for anion-exchange. We have quantitatively exchanged the interlayer nitrate group of Pb3F5NO3 for inorganic as well as organic anions, under ambient aqueous conditions. Also, synthesis and characterization of a series of other structurally diverse neutral layered lead phenylphosphonate and extended transition metal-organic framework materials will be discussed. |
