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2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry: Molecular Sponges That Solve Global Problems
The Winners
Susumu Kitagawa (Japan)
Richard Robson (Australia)
Omar M. Yaghi (USA)
What They Discovered
The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar M. Yaghi for developing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) — microscopic materials that act like molecular sponges. Built from metal ions linked by organic molecules, these structures form tiny cages or honeycombs with vast internal surfaces. This allows them to trap, store, or separate specific molecules, making them extremely useful in many scientific and industrial fields.
How MOFs Work
MOFs are created by connecting metal clusters to carbon-based linkers, forming a 3D network full of nano-sized pores. By changing the building blocks, scientists can design MOFs for specific goals — from cleaning polluted air to extracting water from the atmosphere.
Real-World Uses of MOFs
Desert Water Harvesters: Capture drinking water directly from dry air, even in desert regions.
Air Purifiers: Absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) and harmful gases before they spread into the environment.
Water Filters: Remove toxic chemicals that ordinary filters cannot catch.
Gas Storage: Safely store hydrogen or natural gas, making fuel transport more efficient.
Medicine Makers: Act as catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions during drug production.
The Journey of Discovery
In 1989, Richard Robson built the first MOF structure, though it was unstable. During the 1990s and 2000s, Susumu Kitagawa and Omar Yaghi strengthened and refined the framework, making it durable and highly customizable. Since then, researchers have created tens of thousands of MOFs, each one designed to solve a specific problem.
Why It Matters
MOFs have transformed modern chemistry. These “molecular LEGO blocks” can clean water, capture greenhouse gases, store energy, and even assist in making medicines. Their versatility is paving the way for cleaner, more sustainable technologies — a true breakthrough for science and society.