MOF‐74 Nanofibers as an Advanced Porous Material for Air‐Bearing Technology

Abstract Aerostatic bearings are an important technology that utilizes a thin film of pressurized air between bearing surfaces to enable frictionless movement. In this work, the use of MOF‐74 (Cu) fibers as an innovative material for porous restrictors in aerostatic bearing devices is proposed. MOF‐74 (Cu) fibers are synthesized using a newly developed, green, template‐free approach that produces ultra‐long and robust fibers with excellent mechanical properties. These fibers can be easily processed into free‐standing films and composites, offering a scalable and cost‐effective method for producing air‐bearing pucks. Tests under operational conditions for low‐pressure air bearings demonstrate the reliable structural and mechanical strength of the MOF‐74 (Cu) fibers, positioning them as a promising alternative to traditional bearing materials. This advancement not only sparks the development of air‐bearing technology, but also broadens the potential for MOFs in real‐world applications, paving the way for green and sustainable manufacturing solutions.