Concave, umbrella-like metal complexes provide space to enable the largest molecular rotor operational in the solid-state.
Solid materials are generally known to be rigid and unmoving, but scientists are turning this idea on its head by exploring ways to incorporate moving parts into solids. This can enable the development of exotic new materials such as amphidynamic crystals -- crystals which contain both rigid and mobile components -- whose properties can be altered by controlling molecular rotation within the material.
To enable rotation of such a large molecule, it was necessary to create enough free space within the solid. The team synthesized concave, umbrella-like metal complexes that could shield the rotor molecule from unwanted interactions with other molecules in the crystal. They were able to create sufficient space to accommodate the giant rotor by attaching an especially large, bulky molecule to the metal atom of the stator.
This work expands what is possible for molecular motion in the solid-state. It provides a blueprint for exploring new avenues in the development of amphidynamic crystals, and could lead to the development of new functional materials with unique properties.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Panda diplomacy: China taking back its giant pandas from US zoosChina is collecting its giant pandas on loan to zoos in the United States and other countries in what foreign policy analysts say is a possible change in its approach to
Read more »
Why is China taking back its giant pandas from the US, other countries?China is collecting its giant pandas on loan to zoos in the United States and other countries in what foreign policy analysts say is a possible change in its approach to
Read more »
Fossil of giant trapdoor spider is four times larger than modern speciesResearchers have discovered a 'giant' trapdoor spider fossil that will finally give us a glimpse at how big ancient spiders could be.
Read more »
Powerball draws number for giant $960 million jackpotThe numbers have been drawn for an estimated $960 million Powerball jackpot. It's the ninth-largest lottery prize of all time.
Read more »
Powerball draws number for giant $960 million jackpotThe numbers have been drawn for an estimated $960 million Powerball jackpot
Read more »