We address the metal–organic frameworks UiO-6x (x = 6, 7, 8), their band gaps, and the changes in the band gaps upon perturbations in the metal–organic framework structures. Computational studies were performed with complementary experimental band gap measurements. Band gap modulations upon hydrogen substitutions by NH2 and NO2 on the organic linker, hydroxylation and dehydroxylation of the metal center, different linker lengths (x = 6, 7, 8), and Ti and Hf substitutions for Zr were analyzed in detail. The origin of the band gap changes was thoroughly investigated, and this work confirmed a reduction in the band gap upon NH2 and NO2 substitutions. Furthermore, this work explicitly illustrated that changes in the band gap were also observed by changing the coordination around the Zr atom, whereas isovalent substitutions on the metal center did not yield significant perturbations of the band gap.

Phase-change materials (PCM) can be used to reduce thermal stress and improve thermal comfort for workers wearing protective clothing. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PCM in protective clothing used in simulated work situations. We hypothesized that it would be possible to optimize cooling performance with a design that focuses on careful positioning of PCM, minimizing total insulation and facilitating moisture transport. Thermal stress and thermal comfort were estimated through measurement of body heat production, body temperatures, sweat production, relative humidity in clothing and subjective ratings of thermal comfort, thermal sensitivity and perception of wetness. Experiments were carried out using 2 types of PCM, the crystalline dehydrate of sodium sulphate and microcapsules in fabrics. The results of 1 field and 2 laboratory experimental series were conclusive in that reduced thermal stress and improved thermal comfort were related to the amount and distribution of PCM, reduced sweat production and adequate transport of moisture.

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Received Month X, XXXX; revised Month X, XXXX; accepted Month X, XXXX; posted Month X, XXXX (Doc. ID XXXXX); published Month X, XXXX Optical properties of single diatom frustule valves from two different Coscinodiscus species (C. Wailesii and C. Centralis) are studied by transmission confocal hyperspectral imaging and numerical calculations. Light convergence, concentration and trapping effects are observed and depend on both the wavelength and the valve orientation. These effects seem to occur independently of the incident light angle. From our results, a wavelength dependent multifocal lens behavior can be explained by light diffraction related to the radial symmetry of the multi-scaled 3D nanostructure.