Nobel Prize in Chemistry Celebrates 3 Scientists for Groundbreaking Studies on Framework Materials
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry goes to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar M Yaghi for their seminal research on MOFs.
The scientists' studies has potential to tackle numerous major global problems, including CO2 capture to combat global warming or minimizing synthetic debris through advanced chemical processes.
“It’s a profound honor and pleasure, thank you,” stated the Japanese scientist via a telephone conversation with the news conference after learning the decision.
“What’s the duration I need to remain? I have an appointment to attend,” Professor Kitagawa continued.
The three winners will share award funds amounting to SEK 11 million (about £872k).
Structural Design at the Center of the Discovery
Their researchers' studies focuses on how molecules are structured in unison into elaborate networks. The selection panel described it as “molecular architecture”.
The scientists formulated approaches to build assemblies with considerable voids amid the molecules, allowing different compounds to flow through them.
Such compounds are referred to as metal-organic materials.
The declaration was presented by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences during a media briefing in Stockholm, Sweden.
Susumu Kitagawa is affiliated with the University of Kyoto in Japan, Professor Richard Robson is associated with the Melbourne University in the Australian continent, and Prof. Yaghi is at the California University in the United States.
Recent Nobel Laureates in Scientific Categories
Last year, three other scientists received the honor for their studies on biological molecules, which are essential components of living organisms.
It is the 3rd science prize given this week. Earlier this week, John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret and John M. Martinis won the Physics Nobel for their work on quantum mechanics that paved the way for the advancement of the quantum computing system.
On Monday, three scientists work on how the biological immunity attacks hostile infections secured them the award for physiology.
A single winner, Dr. Ramsdell, did not receive the notification for a full day because he was on an disconnected outing.
