Description of the thesis topic

"Development of new ZIF-type hydrophobic materials for mechanical energy storage"

Development of new hydrophobic ZIF-type materials for mechanical energy storage” ZIFs (Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks) are a family of MOFs (Metal-Organic Frameworks). They are organic-inorganic hybrid compounds, usually porous. We are particularly interested in the hydrophobic character of some of these materials, which makes it possible to store mechanical energy by intrusion of non-wetting liquid. We aim to develop highly hydrophobic ZIFs, starting from non-commercial ligands, and using conventional (solvothermal, precipitation, microwave,...) and “green” synthesis methods. The structure-property relationships of these compounds will be studied in order to select the best candidates for use in novel mechanical energy storage devices. Each lyophobic heterogeneous system (SHL), the combination of a non-wetting liquid and a ZIF, capable of storing/dissipating/absorbing mechanical energy, will be tested using high-pressure intrusion-extrusion experiments. The possibility of extending this experiment to a larger scale will be considered. Other applications are also envisaged for these porous and highly hydrophobic ZIF phases.


Skills required:
- Master's degree (or equivalent) in molecular chemistry, chemistry of materials,
- Synthesis of organic ligands, coordination chemistry,
- Good writing skills (reports and presentations),
- Motivation, involvement, rigor, autonomy, teamwork, curiosity,
- Good level of spoken and written English.

Work Context

The PhD student will work (50/50) on two different sites:
Campus Esplanade, University of Strasbourg, UMR 7140 https://complex-matter.unistra.fr/equipes-de-recherche/laboratoire-de-synthese-et-fonctions-des-architectures-moleculaires/accueil/,
and
Illberg Campus (UMR 7361, https://www.is2m.uha.fr/fr/nos-axes-thematiques/mpc/)

Constraints and risks

Risks associated with handling chemicals and synthetic chemistry