Porous Materials For Sustainability Research Group

Introduction

Our research contributes to the development of functional hybrid porous materials from a molecular level based on synthetic and natural materials such as Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Zeolite. In our latest research, we combine MOFs with natural materials like zeolite, active carbon, graphite and graphene oxide as well as organic polymers to form composite materials with enhanced chemical and physical properties. These are now tested for applications in environmental protection, energy storage and drug delivery, all of which are focused on sustainable development goals.

Potential Applications

Our research is much focused on the synthesis of Metal-Organic Frameworks (so-called MOFs), which are of interest due to their novel structures, interesting properties and potential applications as new materials such as molecular magnets, as heterogeneous catalysts for gas separation and storage, for ion exchange and as drug delivery systems. MOFs with micro-porous architecture are promising for hydrogen and methane storages, and could be  alternative renewable energy carriers in the future. Our topic research such as  organometallic chemistry, MOFs, and some related porous materials like zeolite and active carbon with applications for sustainable developments. We are working on the purification, modification, and phase transformation of Indonesian natural zeolite to be used as a green and inexpensive catalyst in the conversion of palm oil into green diesel or biodiesel for high added value. In the area of MOFs, which are my main research interest, we are developing green synthetic methods for MOFs and are using them not only in optical applications but also as catalysts in energy conversion, methane, and hydrogen storage.

To improve the physical and chemical properties of MOFs in applications, composite materials using MOF-zeolite, MOF-organic polymer or MOF-graphite/graphene oxide have also been recently developed in our group. This work is conducted through research collaboration with related experts from universities and research institutes in Indonesia

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