Energetics of Microporous Materials

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0101391NavrotskyZeolites and other nanoporous materials are of major importance in catalysis, ion exchange, gas separation, and other technologies. They consist of a wealth of open framework structures with varying compositions and degrees of hydration. As Part of an ongoing study of the energetic driving forces which govern zeolite synthesis and reactivity, this work uses unique calorimetric capabilities in the UC Davis Thermochemistry Facility to determine energetics of formation, ion exchange, and hydration in selected aluminosilicate zeolites and their gallium and germanium analogues. This work is completed by molecular modeling. In situ calorimetric studies of zeolite synthesis form another focus of research. Such synthesis is controlled by both inorganic and organic structure directing agents, and their energetic role in both zeolites and mesoporous materials will be investigated by calorimetry. The overall goal of this research is an understanding, at the molecular level, of the factors which cause specific structures to form. The Thermochemistry Facility and its diverse activities (including participation in an NSF IGERT) provide vigorous, rigorous, and supportive education for a large number of students and postdocs from many cultural, ethnic, and economic backgrounds.