Chi-Ying Vanessa Li

Metal–Organic Framework Threaded with Aminated Polymer Formed in Situ for Fast and Reversible Ion Exchange

A porous metal-organic framework composite with flexible anion-exchange polymers threaded within the host cavity demonstrates very fast and reversible ion-exchange activity. Polyvinyl benzyl trimethylammonium hydroxide (PVBTAH) caged in ZIF-8 is synthesized in steps of chloro-monomer impregnation, in situ polymerization, amination, and alkaline ion exchange. The synthesized non-cross-linked PVBTAH∼ZIF-8 material exhibits superior ion-exchange kinetics compared to conventional ion-exchange resins.

A functionalized MIL-101(Cr) metal-organic framework for enhanced hydrogen release from ammonia borane at low temperature

Hydrogen released from ammonia borane in MIL-101(Cr) can be significantly improved by the attached amino and amide groups. The release with minimum impurities starts at 68 °C, reaching 1.6 equivalent of ammonia borane at 85 °C for the amino modified MOFs (NH2-MIL-101).

Combustion synthesis of Cr2O3 octahedra with a chromium-containing metal–organic framework as a sacrificial template

High surface area mesoporous Cr2O3 nanostructures are synthesized using MIL-101(Cr) as a sacrificial template in a combustion synthesis with the octahedral shape of the MOF retained. This new synthetic approach avoids a template-removal step, can be carried out in a simple device, and is time and energy efficient for easy scale-up.

Lead Acid-NiMH Hybrid Battery System Using Gel Electrolyte

Due to its mature technological status, lead acid batteries have not been the focal point of batteries in the last decade. With the limitation on other new battery types – such as low power density for lithium ion battery, high self discharge and short life cycles for high current discharge for nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery – researchers has revisited the possibilities to enhance lead acid battery technology. Lead acid batteries are durable with low maintenance, inexpensive and simple to manufacture; recyclable and lowest self discharge among other rechargeable systems. With the above advantages, lead acid batteries are both cost effective and energy efficient; it is expected that lead acid battery would attract interests from battery manufacturers should the lower energy density and cycle life be improved.