Enhancement of Metal-Organic Framework Systems for Degradation of Nerve Agents
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) show potential as Lewis acid catalysts for the destruction of organophosphate nerve agents. Previously, they required a volatile aqueous base to achieve ideal degradation reaction kinetics. Recent success has been achieved in incorporating azole bases into MOFs that enhance the catalytic degradation of organophosphate nerve agent mimic. This project encapsulated azole derivatives into zirconium-based MOF structures to yield MOF composites. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and physisorption experiments confirmed each MOF's structure and physical properties. The reaction kinetics of each MOF were evaluated via hydrolysis of DMNP, a nerve agent mimic, using 31P NMR; these data reveal that MOF composites containing imidazole and 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole increased reaction rates greater than 250 percent compared to controls. MOF was then immobilized within a mesoporous natural fiber welded (M-NFW) cellulose fabric. The kinetics of DMNP degradation by these MOF-fabrics was monitored using UV-Vis spectroscopy. MOF composites that do not require volatile base to carry out catalyzed hydrolysis of organophosphate nerve agents provide a time-effective approach to combating nerve agents. Integrating these nanomaterials into M-NFW cellulose fabric is a novel way to implement MOF structures for applications such as gas mask filters and clothing that protect personnel during chemical warfare attacks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1207035
Entities
People
- Ashe T. William
Organizations
- United States Naval Academy