Framien

Framien is a term used in theoretical and computational materials science to describe a class of hypothetical framework materials with frame-like lattice architectures. In models, framien structures consist of rigid node clusters connected by extensible linkers to form a porous three-dimensional network.

Etymology: The name framien derives from "frame" and the -ien suffix used in material names.

Structure and properties: Framien networks are envisioned as covalently bonded or metal-coordinated frameworks with high stiffness, low density, and tunable pore sizes. They would exhibit anisotropic mechanical properties and thermal stability depending on node chemistry and linker length.

Synthesis and status: As of now, framien exists as a theoretical construct used in simulations and comparative studies with covalent organic frameworks (COFs), metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and other framework materials. No widely reported experimental realization has been demonstrated.

Applications and potential: In theory, framien could enable selective gas separation, heterogeneous catalysis, energy storage, and sensing, leveraging its porosity and chemical tunability. Realization would face challenges in synthetic control, scalability, and stability under operating conditions.

See also: framework materials, covalent organic frameworks, metal-organic frameworks.