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Our Research

The Hodges Research Group is broadly interested in the synthesis and applications of new inorganic solids, with a particular emphasis on microporous oxides, metal chalcogenides, and multi-anion materials for energy-related applications including thermoelectrics and heterogeneous catalysis. Members of the group learn a variety of synthesis and characterization techniques, and also have opportunities to study the properties of newly discovered compounds. The research programs are designed to impart lab members with skillsets that will translate to a diverse range of career paths. 

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Microporous Oxides

Developing innovative mixed metal oxides and zeolitic systems through novel synthetic approaches.

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Exploratory Synthesis

Uncovering novel metal oxides and metal chalcogenides through solid state synthetic techniques.

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Material Applications

Analyze and evaluate newly developed materials for applications in thermoelectric and catalytic processes.

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Microporous Oxides

Mix Metal Oxides

Project overview.

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Students Working on this Project:

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Current Collaborators

1) Names

Related/Selected Publications

1) citation

Zeolitic Materials

Project overview.

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Students Working on this Project:

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Current Collaborators

1) Names

Related/Selected Publications

1) citation

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Exploratory Synthesis

Metal Chalcogenides

Project overview.

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Students Working on this Project:

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Current Collaborators

1) Names

Related/Selected Publications

1) citation

Metallosilicates Crystal Growth

Contaminated water, especially with heavy metals, is a global environmental threat. Metallosilicates, like titanosilicate cation exchangers, show promise in selectively removing metal ions. However, analyzing their ion exchange selectivity requires advanced techniques. Flux crystal growth (FCG) offers a novel solution by enabling the production of high-quality single crystals, essential for in-depth studies. Using flux melts, allows controlled crystallization at lower temperatures, reducing defects and enhancing crystal quality. Additionally, growing single crystals through FCG facilitates precise characterization using single crystal X-ray diffraction, providing insights into cation-framework bonding interactions. This knowledge aids in designing targeted metallosilicates for efficient ion exchange capabilities. 

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Students Working on this Project:

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Related/Selected Publications

1) Kanatzidis, M. G.; Pöttgen, R.; Jeitschko, W. The Metal Flux: A Preparative Tool for the Exploration of Intermetallic Compounds. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2005, 44, 6996–7023.

2) Bugaris, D. E.; zur Loye, H. Materials Discovery by Flux Crystal Growth: Quaternary and Higher Order Oxides. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2012, 51, 3780–3811.

3) Juillerat, C. A.; Klepov, V. V.; Morrison, G.; Pace, K. A.; zur Loye, H.-C. Flux Crystal Growth: A Versatile Technique to Reveal the Crystal Chemistry of Complex Uranium Oxides. Dalton Trans., 2019, 48, 3162–3181. 

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Material Applications

Catalysis

Project overview.

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Students Working on this Project:

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Current Collaborators

1) Names

Related/Selected Publications

1) citation

Thermoelectrics

Project overview.

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Students Working on this Project:

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Current Collaborators

1) Names

Related/Selected Publications

1) citation

Future/Possible Directions

The Hodges Research Group is broadly interested in the synthesis and applications of new inorganic solids. Possible project ideas can be: 

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other

other

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thin films

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