"Hydrogenic Defects in Metal–Organic Frameworks"

Christopher H. Hendon

Associate Professor of Chemistry

University of Oregon, Chemistry and Biochemistry

Host: Dr. Davit Potoyan

Abstract:  During the self-assembly of metal-organic frameworks, entropy drives the inclusion of defects, and these defects may have dramatic impact on the bulk material properties. Hydrogenic adatoms are particularly interesting, as they should be present due to incomplete deprotonation of the organic acids. Yet, these defects are experimentally difficult to detect. In this talk we discuss avenues to control the number of adatomic hydrogen atoms by affecting the nuclearity of the MOF nodes, highlighting a unique molecular-like property afforded to MOFs: site isolated redox events. In systems with delocalized electronic structures, the adatomic hydrogen atoms can be used to dope the framework, affecting the Fermi level. Together, we highlight that adatomic hydrogen is likely a prevalent defect in MOFs and may be useful for control bulk material properties.

Bio: Christopher H. Hendon is an Associate Professor at the University of Oregon, specializing in Computational Material Chemistry. He has a strong background in materials science and has authored the book "Water For Coffee" with a world champion barista. His research focuses on the chemical properties of coffee and the development of new materials for energy storage and conversion. Hendon has been recognized for his contributions to scientific communication and has been awarded the Rippey Award for Innovative Teaching twice. His work has significantly impacted the coffee industry, and he continues to collaborate with local businesses to maximize his research impact. Hendon Materials Simulation Research Group