A groundbreaking discovery by scientists from the University of Warwick and the University of Manchester has revealed that graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms, is naturally permeable to protons, the nuclei of hydrogen atoms. This finding defies previous theories and holds significant potential for advancing the hydrogen economy. Protons not only move through the graphene crystal but also accelerate around its nanoscale wrinkles, providing a larger space for protons to permeate. This discovery could revolutionize the hydrogen economy by offering sustainable alternatives to existing catalysts and membranes, thereby reducing costs and environmental impacts. By replacing costly and harmful catalysts and membranes, the use of graphene in hydrogen generation and utilization could contribute to a Net Zero carbon environment by reducing carbon emissions. The researchers employed a technique called scanning electrochemical cell microscopy to measure proton currents and visualize their distribution through graphene membranes. Their findings conclusively demonstrate that graphene crystals allow proton transport and debunk the theory that protons permeate through tiny holes in the graphene structure. This groundbreaking revelation has implications for the design of next-generation membranes and separators involving protons and opens up exciting possibilities for developing low-cost catalysts for hydrogen-related technologies. The researchers expressed their astonishment at the absence of defects in the graphene crystals and emphasized the potential of exploiting the catalytic activity of wrinkles and ripples in 2D crystals for accelerating ion transport and chemical reactions. Overall, this discovery offers a new way to generate hydrogen cheaply and sustainably, contributing to the advancement of the hydrogen economy and the shift towards a cleaner, greener future.
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