Three scientists have been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their pioneering work in developing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). The laureates are Susumu Kitagawa from Japan, Richard Robson from the UK, and Omar M. Yaghi from Jordan, who have made significant contributions to molecular architecture. Their innovative designs allow for the creation of structures with large cavities that can facilitate the flow of gases and other chemicals.

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced the award, highlighting that these frameworks can be utilized for various applications, including harvesting water from desert air, capturing carbon dioxide, and catalyzing chemical reactions. "The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar M. Yaghi for the development of metal-organic frameworks," the Academy stated.

The MOFs consist of metal ions linked by long organic molecules, forming porous materials that can be tailored to capture specific substances. This flexibility allows chemists to design materials for various functions, including energy storage and environmental remediation. Heiner Linke, Chair of the Nobel Committee for Chemistry, remarked, "Metal-organic frameworks have enormous potential, bringing previously unforeseen opportunities for custom-made materials with new functions."

The journey towards this achievement began in 1989 when Richard Robson experimented with copper ions and organic molecules, leading to the formation of stable crystals. Over the years, Kitagawa and Yaghi further advanced the field, demonstrating the frameworks' capabilities and stability.

The prize, amounting to 11 million Swedish kronor, will be equally shared among the three scientists. Kitagawa, born in 1951, is a professor at Kyoto University. Robson, born in 1937, is affiliated with the University of Melbourne, while Yaghi, born in 1965, teaches at the University of California, Berkeley. Their work is expected to address some of the world's pressing challenges, including environmental issues and resource management.