Supramolecular chemistry methods make it possible to create chimeric molecular bonds from complex molecules. Setting up reactions for synthesis alone is complex and unpredictable. However, in case of success, it is possible to achieve an incredible result, achieved, for example, by a group of chemists from Great Britain and China who created the first molecule of its kind that effectively absorbs greenhouse gases and more.

Scientists from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh named their molecules cell from cells . It is a type of frame from a frame, the assembly of which occurs on its own during a series of sequential chemical reactions. First, prism-like molecules are brought together, then these “prisms” are assembled into tetrahedra. The result is a deeply porous material whose molecules can organize stable connections with molecules of carbon dioxide and, in principle, other volatile organic compounds.

For example, the new material demonstrated the ability to absorb the “smell” of synthetics from new things; This will prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors from the interior of a new car or TV. However, scientists were most impressed by the ability of the synthesized molecule to absorb sulfur hexafluoride (SF).₆). Relatively small amounts of this greenhouse gas are found in the atmosphere, but it can accumulate anywhere and remain there for more than 3,000 years. For example, the greenhouse effect from SF in 100 years₆ It will be 23,500 times more powerful than CO emissions₂.

“This is an exciting discovery– scientists explain, – because we need new porous materials that will help solve society’s biggest problems, such as capturing and storing greenhouse gases.”

Importantly, the synthesized molecule is not afraid of moisture, which will allow the new material to directly absorb greenhouse gases from industrial emissions, usually water vapor or sewage. The discovered substance showed itself well in the laboratory, but when it will enter the field of commercial use is not a separate and clear question, but the full text of the article in the journal Nature Synthesis You can access it from the link.