Sunday, 2 November 2025

Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs): The Next-Generation Materials Transforming Chemistry & Industry

 


Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are among the most exciting materials in modern chemistry. These porous crystal structures, made by linking metal ions with organic ligands, are revolutionizing applications from gas storage to drug delivery.

A recent review titled “Metal-Organic Framework: Classification, Synthetic Approaches and Influencing Factors” provides a detailed look into how MOFs are designed, synthesized, and optimized. Let’s break down the key insights in a simple and engaging way.

 

🧱 What Are MOFs?

MOFs are three-dimensional porous coordination polymers that combine metal ions with organic linkers to form highly structured frameworks. They boast extraordinarily high surface area and tunable pore structures, making them versatile for multiple scientific and industrial uses.

MOFs exhibit good crystallinity, structural flexibility, and superior porosity

review-on-metal-organic-framewo…

These properties set MOFs apart from conventional porous materials like zeolites and activated carbon.

 

📂 Classification of MOFs

MOFs can be grouped into different classes based on their components and topologies. The paper highlights several categories:

  • Based on metal centers
    • Transition metal-based MOFs
    • Lanthanide-based MOFs
  • Based on structure
    • 1D chain structures
    • 2D layered structures
    • 3D networks

MOFs are classified by coordination geometry, metal cluster types, and framework dimensionality

This classification helps researchers design frameworks for targeted functions like catalysis or gas adsorption.

 

Lemon Juice Stops Apples from Turning Brown – Everyday Chemistry

 


Have you ever cut an apple only to see it turn brown after a few minutes? It looks unpleasant, right? But chemistry has the answer — and the solution!

The Science Behind Browning

When an apple is cut, the cells break open and release an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase (PPO).
This enzyme reacts with oxygen in the air and forms brown-colored compounds.This process is called enzymatic oxidation.

Cut Apple + Oxygen → Brown Pigments (Melanins)

How Lemon Juice Helps

Lemon juice contains citric acid and vitamin C (ascorbic acid).
These substances slow down the oxidation process by:

Lowering pH → Enzyme becomes less active
Acting as antioxidants Prevent browning reaction

That's why apples stay fresh and white when sprinkled with lemon juice!