Research under the direction of Professor Hyoungjeen Jeen from Pusan National University and Professor Hiromichi Ohta from Hokkaido University was published in Nature Communications and shows new opportunities for technologies such as fixed oxide fuel cells, thermal transistors and intelligent windows.
Break crystal could supply the next generation technologies with electricity
According to Professor Jeen, the new discovery is “the crystal lavings and it can give oxygen in inhaling and exhaling command.” The control of oxygen within materials is the key to solid oxide fuel cells that generate electricity from hydrogen with minimal emissions.
In addition to fuel cells, the oxygen-breath of the crystal can enable thermal transistors that channel heat such as electrical switches, and intelligent windows that automatically set the heat flow based on the weather conditions.
Past restrictions
Previously, materials that control oxygen were fragile or required extreme conditions, which made it impractical for everyday technologies. However, the new crystal reliably works under milder conditions and absorbs and releases oxygen without dismantling. This makes it very suitable for real clean energy, electronics and building material applications.
Stable structure through selective cobalt reduction
The scientists found that only the cob paintings in the crystal are reduced during the oxygen feeding process, which forms a new but stable crystal structure. Experiments confirmed that the material can return to its original form after the reintroduction of oxygen in order to ensure reversibility and long -term reliability.
Professor Ohta emphasized that this discovery is a great step forward to developing intelligent materials that can set in real time.
With potential energy, electronics and sustainable building applications, the oxygen atemstall crystal could play a key role in improving efficiency and sustainability in several industries.