📷 Image Credits: Lokmat Times
The team at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) in New Delhi has introduced a novel quantitative measure of mechanical flexibility for crystals. This measure, presented in a recent study published in the journal Physical Review B, offers insights into the flexibility of Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a class of crystalline materials with diverse applications.
MOFs are known for their ability to absorb gases like carbon dioxide and act as filters for crude oil purification. However, their limited stability and mechanical weakness have restricted their broader applications. The research conducted by JNCASR delved into the structural rearrangements within MOFs that contribute to their flexibility, highlighting the importance of large structural changes associated with vibrations within the crystal.
Traditionally, the flexibility of crystals has been evaluated based on parameters such as elastic modulus. In contrast, the JNCASR study proposes a unique theoretical measure based on the release of elastic stress energy through internal structural rearrangements. This approach provides a quantitative insight into the flexibility of crystals, revolutionizing the understanding of their mechanical properties.
By examining the flexibility of different systems with varying elastic stiffness and chemistries, the team discovered that flexibility stems from structural rearrangements driven by vibrations within the crystal. The newfound measure of flexibility opens avenues for identifying next-generation flexible materials, offering a cost-effective solution for material screening in databases.
This research not only contributes to materials science but also extends its applications to various industries. The study paves the way for the design of ultra-flexible crystals, providing a practical approach to overcome the challenges posed by traditional experimental methods. The interdisciplinary collaboration between physicists and chemists from institutions like Oxford University and the University of California, Santa Barbara underscores the significance of theoretical advancements in shaping the future of materials research.
Professor Umesh V. Waghmare from JNCASR, the lead researcher behind this innovative measure of flexibility, emphasizes the practical implications of their theoretical framework. With the potential to identify new materials efficiently, this research promises a paradigm shift in materials science, offering diverse applications across industries.
