Nitrogen-Lined Nanoporous Frameworks for Tunable Ion Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nitrogen-containing graphitic materials lack long-range order and controllable pore size, limiting their performance in applications requiring specific electronic and ion transport properties.
Innovation Solution
A new class of Ordered Functional Nanoporous Materials (OFNMs) with controlled nanopore size and functionality is synthesized using simple organic reagents at low temperatures, allowing for three-dimensional structures with tunable electronic conductivity and ion transport properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If nitrogen-containing graphitic materials are synthesized using conventional methods, then the materials can be produced, but they lack long-range order and controllable pore size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying synthesis temperature, reaction time, and precursor ratios to achieve controlled pore sizes (1-10 nm) while maintaining long-range order. The crystalline structure is preserved through optimized thermal treatment parameters that prevent disordering while enabling pore formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action through template-directed synthesis where pore-forming templates are introduced before the final structure formation. This allows the framework to self-organize around the templates, ensuring both long-range order and precise pore size control before template removal.
2Reliability
If conventional synthesis methods are used for nitrogen-containing graphitic materials, then the materials can be produced, but electronic conductivity and ion transport properties are not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates composite materials by combining nitrogen-containing graphitic frameworks with conductive additives or dopants during synthesis. This composite approach enhances electronic conductivity while the modular nature of the composite structure keeps the synthesis process manageable through sequential assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by introducing conductive moieties or functional groups at specific locations within the framework structure. This localized modification optimizes electronic conductivity in regions where it is most needed for charge transport, while maintaining the overall structural integrity and simplifying the global synthesis approach.
3Productivity
If pore size is increased to improve ion transport, then ion transport properties improve, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes porous materials with specifically engineered pore sizes (1-10 nm) that balance ion transport efficiency with structural stability. The porous framework is designed with appropriate wall thickness and cross-linking density to maintain mechanical strength while providing sufficient pore volume for rapid ion transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by introducing cross-linking bonds or reinforcing structural elements that compensate for the destabilizing effect of large pores. These counteracting structural features maintain framework stability even when pore sizes are increased to enhance ion transport rates.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The OFNMs exhibit improved electronic conductivity, gas transport ability, and ion transport properties, enabling applications in selective ion transport membranes, gas separation, battery electrodes, and chemical sensing, with enhanced stability and efficiency in charge/discharge cycles.
Implementation Method 1
ion transport properties
Implementation Method 2
nanopores of various sizes and functionalities
Implementation Method 3
electronic conductivity
Implementation Method 4
conjugated organic framework with a delocalized pi-electronic structure
Implementation Method 5
gas transport ability
Implementation Method 6
catalyst binding
Data Source
AI summary
A new class of ordered functional nanoporous material (OFNMs) with a unique combination of electronic conductivity, gas transport ability, and ion transport properties are provided. The OFNM provided is highly ordered and contains nanometer scale pores lined with nitrogen atoms. The pores have dimensions of from 1.2 nm to 82 nm of longest linear extent across the pore. The functionality within the pore is controlled through selection of groups that extend into the pore. The degree of conjugated aromaticity is readily controlled to adjust the electrical conductivity properties of the resulting structure. By adjusting the groups external to the pore, three-dimensional structures are formed that are organic mimics of zeolites, metal organic frameworks (MOF), or perovskites.