Engineering Porous Materials with Precisely Targeted Properties Using AI-Driven Self-Optimising Continuous Flow Microwave Technologies

Engineering porous materials with precisely targeted properties using AI-driven self-optimising continuous flow microwave technologies is an ambitious research project will transform how metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are discovered, optimised and manufactured. MOFs are highly porous materials with applications in carbon capture, catalysis, drug delivery, sensing and environmental remediation. However, their development is often slowed by trial-and-error experimentation, poor reproducibility and significant scale-up challenges.

To address these barriers, the project will combine continuous flow microwave technologies, automation, real-time process analytics and artificial intelligence. Together, these capabilities will create self-optimising synthesis platforms that rapidly identify conditions for producing MOFs with precisely targeted properties. In addition, the project will develop a deeper understanding of MOF crystallisation and formation processes. As a result, materials discovery will shift from empirical screening towards predictive, data-driven design.

Ultimately, the technologies developed will accelerate the discovery of advanced porous materials while reducing optimisation time, energy use and resource consumption. Furthermore, the project will establish scalable manufacturing routes for applications in healthcare, sustainable chemical production and environmental protection.

The project will:

• Develop AI-driven self-optimising platforms for autonomous MOF synthesis
• Generate new understanding of MOF formation and crystallisation mechanisms
• Enable the targeted design of porous materials with application-specific properties
• Improve reproducibility and reliability in MOF discovery and development
• Create scalable continuous manufacturing approaches for advanced materials
• Accelerate the translation of MOF technologies from laboratory research to industrial application

Project Details

Project dates: February 2025 - February 2029
iPRD Investigators: Andrea Laybourn
Funding value: £1,603,704
Funders: UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships