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.
Microporous Oxides
Developing innovative mixed metal oxides and zeolitic systems through novel synthetic approaches.
Exploratory Synthesis
Uncovering novel metal oxides and metal chalcogenides through solid state synthetic techniques.
Material Applications
Analyze and evaluate newly developed materials for applications in thermoelectric and catalytic processes.
Microporous Oxides
Mix Metal Oxides
Project overview.
Students Working on this Project:
Current Collaborators
1) Names
Related/Selected Publications
1) citation
Zeolitic Materials
Project overview.
Students Working on this Project:
Current Collaborators
1) Names
Related/Selected Publications
1) citation
Exploratory Synthesis
Metal Chalcogenides
Project overview.
Students Working on this Project:
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.
Students Working on this Project:
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.
Material Applications
Thermoelectrics
Project overview.
Students Working on this Project:
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: