Nobel Prize in Chemistry Recognizes 3 Researchers for Pioneering Work on Framework Materials
This year's prestigious award in the field of chemistry is given to three distinguished scientists for their foundational research on porous materials.
Their research could be applied to tackle some of the major global issues, for instance trapping greenhouse gases to combat environmental shifts or curbing plastic waste through sophisticated chemical processes.
“It’s a profound honor and pleasure, thank you,” remarked the Japanese scientist in a telephone conversation to the news conference subsequent to learning the news.
“What’s the duration I need to remain? I have an appointment to attend,” he noted.
The three winners receive award funds totaling 11 million Swedish kronor (equivalent to £872,000).
Framework Construction at the Heart of their Achievement
The researchers' research focuses on how chemical compounds can be assembled together into intricate networks. Award organizers described it as “molecular design”.
The professors devised approaches to build structures with large voids amid the units, enabling various substances to travel within them.
These structures are called MOFs.
This declaration was delivered by the academic institution during a press event in Stockholm, Sweden.
Prof. Kitagawa works at Kyoto University in Japan, Professor Richard Robson is at the University of Melbourne in Australia, and Professor Omar M. Yaghi resides at the University of California in the United States.
Earlier Award Winners in Scientific Categories
During the prior award cycle, Demis Hassabis, John Jumper, and David Baker won the honor for their research on protein structures, which are critical elements of life.
This is the 3rd science recognition presented recently. Previously, John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret and John M. Martinis won the Nobel Prize in Physics for their work on quantum mechanics that facilitated the creation of the quantum processor.
On Monday, three scientists investigations on how the body's defenses attacks harmful microbes secured them the honor for physiology.
One laureate, Fred Ramsdell, did not receive the news for a full day because he was on an off-grid hiking trip.
