Next-Generation Coordination Polymers

In March 2026, a team of Indian researchers from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) and CHRIST (Deemed to be University) has developed next-generation coordination polymers that could significantly boost energy storage and green hydrogen production.

Key Points

New Materials Developed:
- Coordination polymers: Zn(DAB) and Cd(DAB).
- Synthesised using zinc/cadmium and organic molecules (3,3′-diaminobenzidine).
- Produced via a simple, room-temperature process.
Scalability Advantage:
- No need for complex equipment.
- Suitable for large-scale, real-world applications.
Energy Storage Performance:
- Zn(DAB): 2091.4 F/g capacitance.
- Cd(DAB): 1341.6 F/g.
- Strong performance even in practical supercapacitor setups.
Durability: Maintained efficiency over 5,000 charge-discharge cycles
Green Hydrogen Potential:
- Effective in electrocatalytic water splitting
- Low overpotential:
  - Zn(DAB): 263 mV
  - Cd(DAB): 209 mV
  - Could reduce cost of hydrogen production
Research Significance:
- Bridges gap between lab innovation and scalable clean energy solutions
- Highlights role of advanced coordination polymers in energy transition