Rice University scientists identify metal organic framework
candidates for methane storage
Cars that run on natural gas are touted as efficient and
environmentally friendly, but getting enough gas onboard to make them practical
is a hurdle. A new study led by researchers at Rice University promises to
help.
Rather than shoehorn bulky high-pressure tanks like those
used in buses and trucks into light vehicles, the Department of Energy (DOE)
encourages scientists to look at new materials that can store compressed
natural gas (CNG) at low pressure and at room temperature. Cage-like synthetic
macromolecules called metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are among the candidates.