Nobel Prize in Chemistry Recognizes Three Researchers for Groundbreaking Research on MOF Structures
The Nobel Prize in the field of chemistry goes to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar M Yaghi for their foundational research on porous materials.
The scientists' studies could be applied to tackle numerous pressing worldwide issues, including CO2 capture to fight global warming or reducing plastic pollution through sophisticated scientific methods.
“I'm deeply honoured and delighted, thank you very much,” remarked the Japanese scientist during a phone call with the press briefing subsequent to learning the decision.
“What’s the duration I need to remain? I have an appointment to attend,” he continued.
The three winners are splitting award funds amounting to SEK 11 million (about £872k).
Molecular Architecture at the Center of the Achievement
The scientists' work focuses on how chemical compounds can be assembled in unison into elaborate networks. The Nobel committee termed it “molecular design”.
These experts formulated methods to create frameworks with considerable voids between the units, allowing gases and other chemicals to flow via them.
Such structures are referred to as MOFs.
This declaration was presented by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences during a news conference in the Swedish capital.
Susumu Kitagawa is based at the University of Kyoto in Japan, Richard Robson works for the Melbourne University in Australia, and Prof. Yaghi resides at the UC in the USA.
Earlier Award Winners in Scientific Categories
During the prior award cycle, three other scientists received the award for their work on biological molecules, which are critical components of biological systems.
It is the third science award awarded this week. Previously, three physicists received the Physics Nobel for their research on quantum mechanics that paved the way for the development of the quantum computer.
Earlier, 3 scientists work on how the biological immunity targets hostile infections won them the award for physiology.
One laureate, Dr. Ramsdell, did not receive the announcement for nearly a day because he was on an off-grid trek.
