Scientists develop molecular trap to clean pollution from water

UK scientists have developed a new material that could help reduce pollution from discarded medicines and hygiene products that end up in rivers and lakes where they disrupt ecosystems and harm plants, animals and humans.

University of Manchester researchers have investigated potential uses of a cage-like molecule formed from four iron atoms attached around a large carbon-based molecule. This metal organic cage (MOC) can trap pollutants including hormones from contraceptives or scents form cosmetics. MOCs are well established as chemical capture agents in non-aqueous solvents but the Manchester University team’s findings could form the basis for wastewater treatment to remove currently indelible toxins.

Scientist, Jack Wright, who completed the research as part of his PhD, said: “Being able to use MOCs in water is a really exciting development. Many harmful chemicals are difficult to remove from water, and with water pollution becoming a global crisis, this technology could provide a valuable tool to help clean up water systems and prevent pollutants from entering our ecosystem, particularly in rivers and lakes near urban or industrial areas where wastewater discharge is most common.”

PhD supervisor and researcher at The University of Manchester, Dr Imogen Riddell, said: “One of the real strengths of this method is its flexibility. The approach we have developed could be used to design other water-soluble MOCs with different sizes or properties. This opens the door to many future applications, including cleaning up different kinds of pollutants, development of green catalysts or even development of drug delivery strategies.”