On the afternoon of November 5, 2025, Prof. Yang Dong from the School of Chemical Engineering at Nanjing Tech University visited the Institute of New Concept Sensors and Molecular Materials at Shaanxi Normal University, and presented a report titled “Catalysis by Metal Oxo Cluster Nodes of Metal-Organic Frameworks”.

Prof. Yang’s research explores the correlation between the stability and catalytic activity of metal-organic framework (MOF) materials and their metallic node structures and coordination environments. Analysis of zirconium-based and aluminum-based MOFs reveals that surface hydroxyl and formate groups effectively characterize metal site reactivity, with methanol dehydration to dimethyl ether reactions validating their catalytic performance. The type of node hydroxyl influences reaction activity, while the formate coordination pattern distinguishes isolated/paired nodes. This study clarifies the chemical nature of MOF active sites, providing crucial insights for designing and optimizing porous catalytic materials.

The report was chaired by Ma Xinhuan, a doctoral candidate in Prof. Bian Hongtao’s research group. Prof. Xue Dongxu and more than 30 graduate students attended the event.