Molecule-Based Materials Chemistry & Discovery
The research in the Kasper Steen Pedersen Group spans inorganic chemistry broadly, from the synthesis of exotic complexes of the d- and f-block elements to the design of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and inorganic solids. The group’s main focus is materials discovery, with particular emphasis on developing and exploiting “redox non-innocence” in MOFs to tailor electronic, optical, and magnetic properties. By extending well-established molecular concepts to polymeric materials, the group explores largely uncharted chemical territory.
Research
Recent breakthroughs have demonstrated that ligands traditionally regarded as redox-innocent can become redox-active when brought into the vicinity of reducing metal ions. In the rigid MOF environment, the resulting radical ligands — otherwise highly reactive — are remarkably stabilized, often yielding air-stable materials. These new materials provide simplified yet powerful systems for investigating fundamental correlations between molecular structure, electronic structure, and macroscopic physical properties.
To advance this understanding, we employ a wide range of advanced spectroscopic techniques, including experiments at synchrotron, neutron, and muon facilities. This integrated approach enables detailed physical characterization and supports the design of functional materials with tunable properties.
Contact
Kasper Steen Pedersen Professor Department of Chemistry Mobile: 23 60 40 67 kastp@kemi.dtu.dk