Convert STN to ADF

Understanding STN and ADF file formats

STN files are typically associated with ChemDraw or ISIS/Draw chemical structure drawing software. These files store chemical structure information in a proprietary format, often used for exchanging chemical data between researchers and software tools.

ADF files, in the context of chemistry, usually refer to Accelrys Data Files or Alchemy Data Files. These formats are used for storing molecular structures and related data, and are compatible with various cheminformatics applications.

Why convert STN to ADF?

Converting STN to ADF allows users to transfer chemical structure data between different software platforms, ensuring compatibility and facilitating further analysis or visualization.

How to convert STN to ADF

Direct conversion from STN to ADF is not commonly supported by most software. However, you can use an intermediate format such as MOL or SDF to bridge the gap. Here’s a typical workflow:

1. Open the STN file in ChemDraw or ISIS/Draw.
2. Export the structure to a MOL or SDF file using File → Save As or File → Export.
3. Use a cheminformatics tool like Open Babel to convert the MOL/SDF file to ADF format.

Recommended software for conversion

• ChemDraw or ISIS/Draw: For opening and exporting STN files.
• Open Babel: A free, open-source chemical toolbox that supports conversion between hundreds of chemical file formats, including MOL/SDF to ADF. Use the command line or graphical interface for conversion.

Example command in Open Babel:

obabel input.mol -O output.adf

Summary

While there is no direct STN to ADF converter, using ChemDraw or ISIS/Draw to export to an intermediate format, then converting with Open Babel, is the most reliable workflow.