Anions

Exploiting interfacial ionic mobility to make heat-moldable nanoparticle aggregates

Researchers reveal competitive mechanism of dual-mode nitrogen fixation in metal carbide clusters

A study reveals two competing nitrogen activation pathways in negatively charged metal tricarbon clusters, including cleavage and chemisorption. The research provides molecular-level insights into developing efficient catalysts for dinitrogen fixation.

Chemists develop “Dump-and-Stir” technique for fast and safe carborane synthesis

Researchers from The University of Osaka develop a groundbreaking synthetic method to incorporate boron-rich carboranes into aromatic compounds, eliminating complex steps and hazardous conditions. This 'dump-and-stir' technique enables large-scale production using inexpensive aryl bromides and chlorides.

Unlocking the potential of the heavy atom effect in metal clusters

Scientists at Tohoku University have successfully improved the phosphorescence efficiency of silver clusters by incorporating a heavy atom effect, which enhances intersystem crossing and leads to increased phosphorescence. This discovery provides a new design strategy for next-generation luminescent materials and triplet sensitizers.

Novel catalyst development for sustainable ammonia synthesis

Researchers unveil Ba-Si orthosilicate oxynitride-hydride as a transition metal-free catalyst, offering a more sustainable approach to ammonia production. The novel catalyst demonstrates exceptional stability and higher activity than conventional ruthenium-loaded MgO catalysts.

Innovative electrolytes could transform steelmaking and beyond

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed innovative electrolytes that can improve the efficiency of electrochemical processes, including steel production. The new electrolytes are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating energy-intensive blast furnaces.

PFAS-free synthesis of fluorinated pharmaceutical and agrochemical compounds

Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam created a PFAS-free synthesis route for pharmaceutical and agrochemical compounds using a trifluoromethyl group attached to sulfur, nitrogen, or oxygen atoms. The method avoids the use of PFAS reagents, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.

Self-powered pump harnesses light and chemistry to target, capture pollutants

Researchers at Dartmouth College have developed a self-powered pump that uses natural light and chemistry to target and remove specific water pollutants. The pump uses synthetic molecular receptors designed to bond to negatively charged ions, which are then trapped and released in a non-reactive substrate.

USTC develops high-performance anion exchange membranes for sustainability applications

Researchers at USTC developed a novel spiro-branched polymeric membrane with exceptional performance in flow battery applications, exceeding 60 mS cm-1 chloride ion conductivity. The membranes demonstrated superior power density and energy efficiency, potentially addressing various energy and environmental challenges.

Lead-vacancy centers in diamond as building blocks for large-scale quantum networks

A team of researchers created a single negatively charged lead-vacancy center in diamond, which emits photons with specific frequencies not influenced by the crystal's vibrational energy. This characteristic makes the PbV center a promising building block for large-scale quantum networks.

From defects to order: Spontaneously emerging crystal arrangements in perovskite halides

A new defect-ordered layered halide perovskite was discovered, shedding light on how order can emerge through defects in hybrid organic–inorganic compounds. The compound's optical bandgap increased with the concentration of ordered defects in the lattice, presenting a new strategy for tuning perovskite properties.

Cobalt-free electrodes achieved with nickel ions

Scientists at Yokohama National University have created a new type of lithium-ion battery using nickel ions, which can be used in electric vehicles without the need for cobalt. The material overcomes key stability issues by suppressing nickel-ion migration and achieving consistent reversibility.

Water molecule discovery contradicts textbook models

A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge and Max Planck Institute found that water molecules at the surface of saltwater are organized differently than previously thought. The study's findings suggest a depletion of positively charged ions and negatively charged ions, leading to a reversal of textbook models.

Developing a superbase-comparable BaTiO3−xNy oxynitride catalyst

A team of researchers developed a hexagonal BaTiO3−xNy oxynitride catalyst with basicity comparable to that of superbases. The substitution of nitride ions and oxygen vacancies into face-sharing Ti2O9 dimer sites increases the electron density, resulting in a highly basic catalyst.

Synthetic molecules can ‘ferry’ mucus-clearing ions blocked by cystic fibrosis

A University at Buffalo-led research team has developed molecules that can transport chloride ions across cell membranes, increasing airway surface liquid and restoring normal mucus clearance in cystic fibrosis cells. The synthetic anion binders offer a new potential treatment for the chronic disease.

Synergistic work of cations in anion exchange membranes for OH- transport in fuel cells

Researchers developed a poly(p-terphenyl isatin) anion exchange membrane with quaternary ammonium and piperidine cations that provides excellent mechanical properties and OH-ion conductivity. The material's stability and tensile strength reach new heights, paving the way for industrialized application of anion-exchange membranes.

Nanofluidic device generates power with saltwater

Researchers designed a nanofluidic device to harness energy from seawater-freshwater boundaries, where ions naturally flow due to salinity differences. The device converts ionic flow into usable electric power through Coulomb drag, with surprising behaviors and amplification effects discovered in simulations.

“Countercation engineering” for thermoresponsive graphene-oxide nanosheets

Researchers developed a novel approach called 'countercation engineering' to impart thermoresponsiveness to graphene-oxide nanosheets. The method involves synthesizing GO nanosheets with specific countercations, resulting in inherent thermoresponsive behavior without the need for thermoresponsive polymers.

Freeze charges in flames

Researchers at KAUST studied the use of high voltages to control charged particles in flames, which could lead to improved flame stability and reduced soot formation. The team developed a simulation to understand this phenomenon and tested its predictions by studying a flame inside a cavity exposed to electric fields of up to 2,500 volts.

An ingredient in toothpaste may make electric cars go farther

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory discovered a new fluoride electrolyte that can protect lithium metal batteries against performance decline. The electrolyte maintains a robust protective layer on the anode surface for hundreds of cycles, enabling the battery to last longer.

New method could break down PFAS left on water treatment filters

University of Missouri researchers developed a method using thermal induction heating to rapidly break down PFAS on the surface of granular activated carbon and anion exchange resins. The process achieved 98% degradation in just 20 seconds, offering a highly energy-efficient alternative to conventional methods.

Aluminium-ion batteries with improved storage capacity

A research team has developed an organic redox polymer that surpasses the capacity of graphite, enabling aluminium-ion batteries to store up to 167 milliampere hours per gram. The battery retains 88% of its capacity after 5,000 charge cycles at 10 C.

Ba2LuAlO5: A new proton conductor for next-generation fuel cells

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new proton conductor, Ba2LuAlO5, which shows high proton conductivity even without modifications. The material's unique structure and water absorption properties make it ideal for protonic ceramic fuel cells, promising a bright future for sustainable energy generation.

NSF CAREER Awardee advances lightweight, low-cost solar technology

Perovskite photovoltaics are promising for generating solar energy due to their ability to be printed like newspapers and require less material than traditional technologies. However, these materials exhibit instabilities that can cause them to degrade quickly, hindering their commercial viability.

Towards more efficient and eco-friendly thermoelectric oxides with hydrogen substitution

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new approach to improve the performance of thermoelectric materials by substituting hydrogen for oxygen. This substitution reduces thermal conductivity while maintaining high electronic conductivity, leading to improved thermoelectric conversion efficiency.

Fine-tuning the properties of charge-segregated assemblies with counteranions

The study explores the impact of counteranions on stacked ion pairs, leading to variations in energy and orientation. The researchers developed a diverse set of assemblies with tunable properties by incorporating alkyl groups into positively charged squarylium dyes.

Incorporation of water molecules into layered materials impacts ion storage capability

Researchers have used a technique called QCM-D to observe the interplay between hydration structures and ion configurations in layered materials. The study found that the hydration structure plays a crucial role in determining the material's ion-storage capacity, with flexible layers helping to stabilize the structure.

Towards highly conducting molecular materials with a partially oxidized organic neutral molecule

A team of researchers from Japan has developed a single purely organic neutral molecule with an incomplete oxidation state for the first time. The new molecule exhibits multi-step phase transitions and crossover caused by intra- and intermolecular electronic interactions, leading to unique strongly correlated electron properties.

Metal-free batteries raise hope for more sustainable and economical grids

Researchers at KAUST developed a high-efficiency metal-free battery using ammonium cations as charge carriers, outperforming existing analogues with a record operation voltage of 2.75 volts. This breakthrough provides potential for lowering battery costs and enabling large-scale applications.

Best of both worlds: New elastic and durable crosslinked anion exchange membranes

Developed by Incheon National University researchers, the new membranes exhibit high mechanical strength, phase separation, and ionic conductivity. The 40% crosslinked membrane showed the highest relative humidity, normalized conductivity, and peak power density, surpassing commercial membranes.

Water cleanup method developed by University of California, Riverside, scientists destroys pervasive, cancer-causing “forever chemicals” or PFAS

Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have created a novel method to break down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as 'forever chemicals', in contaminated water. The hydrogen-infusion and UV light-based process achieves high molecular destruction rates without generating unwanted byproducts.

Charged porphyrins: The key to investigating the properties of stacked ion pairs

Charged porphyrins enable researchers to study π-electronic ion pairs and their interactions, leading to the creation of electronic materials with unique properties. The study reveals fascinating new properties of stacked ion pairs and their potential applications in fields like nanomagnetism and ferroelectrics.

Structural determination of complex anion materials by an interdisciplinary approach

A team of researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed an analytical tool to investigate the ordering of fluorine in lead titanium oxyfluoride. They used first-principles calculation to analyze experimental results and determined the element substitution positions, finding that fluorine atoms predominan...

Researchers use cellulose to develop slow-release fertilizer and a self-fertilizing propagation pot

A research team at UFSCar developed a biodegradable slow-release fertilizer using modified nanocellulose, which releases nutrients slowly and in a controlled manner. The material is designed to reduce the release of non-biodegradable chemicals into the ecosystem.

New magnesium superionic conductor towards lithium-free solid-state batteries

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create a metal–organic framework-based magnesium ion conductor showing superionic conductivity at room temperature, overcoming the limitations of magnesium ion-based energy devices. The novel Mg2+ electrolyte exhibits a high conductivity of 10−3 S cm−1, making it suitable for battery applica...

Microscopic views of a rare phenomenon: Scientists from Paderborn University publish results in the journal Nature Chemistry

Researchers have gained new understanding of solvation, a process that changes water's physical and chemical properties. Strong interactions between ions and water molecules are disrupted by electrostatic interactions, leading to changes in intermolecular energy transfer.

Scientists serendipitously discover rare cluster compound

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a novel hydroxy-iodide (HSbOI) cluster compound with large, positively charged clusters. This finding may open up new possibilities in the design of solid-state catalysts.

Metal mix and match: An unexpected discovery could improve the crystallinity of coordination nanosheets

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have discovered a method to improve the crystallinity of coordination nanosheets by mixing two metal ion solutions. This approach results in higher crystallinity and improved performance in devices such as electronics and batteries. The findings open a new pathway for tuning the functional pro...

Selective membrane may cycle dual-ion batteries closer to reality

Researchers have developed a new selective membrane technology that significantly improves the cycling stability of dual-ion batteries. The innovative approach decouples negatively charged anions from solvents, preventing co-intercalation and electrolyte corrosion, leading to enhanced oxidation resistance.

Taming of a shape-shifter molecule

Researchers have successfully integrated the shape-shifting molecule bullvalene into a coordination cage, restricting its fluctuating behavior and enabling controlled molecular recognition. This breakthrough could lead to the development of responsive materials with fast adaptation capabilities.

New device advances commercial viability of solar fuels

A new device has been developed that converts sunlight into two promising sources of renewable fuels – ethylene and hydrogen. The researchers found that by optimizing the working conditions for cuprous oxide, a promising artificial photosynthesis material, they can create a more stable system.

Anionic Nickel

Researchers discovered that nickel can catalyze the cross-coupling of aryl ethers through a nickelate anion. This reaction pathway relies on the formation and stability of the catalyst, providing an alternative to traditional palladium-catalyzed cross-couplings.

‘Nanojars’ capture dissolved carbon dioxide, toxic ions from water

Researchers have developed tiny 'nanojars' that can split bicarbonate into carbonate and capture it, as well as certain toxic anions, making them suitable for recycling. The nanojars are made up of multiple repeating units of a copper ion and a pyrazole group, and can selectively bind to specific ions.

Defect engineering assisting in high-level anion doping towards fast charge transfer kinetic

Researchers propose an OV-engineering strategy to realize high-content anion doping in TiO2, enhancing charge transfer kinetics and sodium-ion storage performance. The optimized A-TiO2-x-S/C anode exhibits high-rate capability and ultrahigh energy density.

Capturing electrons in space

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have discovered a mechanism for creating negative ions in interstellar environments. The team used an ion trap to study the formation of chemical compounds, finding that weakly bound states enhance the attachment of free electrons to linear molecules.

Bringing order to hydrogen energy devices

Scientists have developed a new approach to improve hydrogen transport in solids, enabling faster movement of negatively charged hydrogen 'anions' at lower temperatures. The breakthrough could lead to more sustainable sources of energy and practical applications in electrochemical devices.

The first hydroxide conductivity in anion conducting polymer thin films

Scientists from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have successfully developed a new humidity measurement technique for anion conducting polymer thin films. The study revealed high hydroxide ion conductivity of 0.05 S cm^-1, comparable to thick membrane forms.

Now available with a negative charge too

Researchers have introduced a new anionic organoborane compound, borafluorene, which is a system of three carbon rings joined at the edges with a boron atom. The team used carbenes to stabilize the elusive anions and demonstrated their potential as chemical building blocks.

Touched by light: Photoexcited stannyl anions are great for producing organotin compounds

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a new strategy for producing organotin compounds by photoexciting stannyl anions. This approach increases selectivity and reactivity, enabling the efficient synthesis of bioactive products, novel drugs, and functional materials.

Designing selective membranes for batteries using a drug discovery toolbox

Researchers designed a polymer membrane with molecular cages that increase lithium ion flow by an order of magnitude, improving battery power and efficiency. The solvation cages selectively capture and transport lithium ions faster than their counter anions, enabling high-voltage battery cells to operate more efficiently.

Researchers discover new organic conductor

Scientists have created a new type of salt that acts as an electrical conductor, exhibiting unique magnetic coordination at low temperatures. The discovery was made using tetrathiafulvalene as a skeleton for the new substance, which has infinite chain structure and stabilizes atomic arrangements.

Electrode interphase formation

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays a critical role in ideal battery function, and researchers have studied its nucleation and growth in atomic detail. Anions and solvents must be well-balanced to form a homogeneous inorganic, crystalline SEI.

Fabricating the future with a new environment friendly method of polymerization

Scientists at Nagoya Institute of Technology have developed a new, metal-free organocatalysis method for polymerization, which is more efficient and environmentally friendly than current methods. The technique uses non-ionic and multidentate organocatalysts to produce polymeric materials with reduced impurities.

Selective concentration of cationic species

A research team at POSTECH created a novel type of multiscale-porous anion exchange membrane to concentrate only cationic samples. This breakthrough allows for the easy fabrication of a cation-selective electrokinetic concentrator, streamlining manufacturing processes.

Fueling the future: Novel two-polymer membrane boosts hydrogen fuel cell performance

Researchers have created a new anion exchange membrane that overcomes the drawbacks of previous membranes, exhibiting excellent mechanical strength, chemical stability, and conductivity. The membrane's high overall performance was demonstrated in a fuel cell test, showing stable operation for 300 hours with high power density.

Ions in molten salts can go 'against the flow'

Researchers at Uppsala University used computer simulations to study ions in molten salts and found that they can interact and move in unexpected ways. The study's findings suggest that lighter anions like fluoride and chloride can be attracted to both lithium ions and the positive anode, leading to slower movement towards the cathode.

iCeMS makes highly conductive antiperovskites with soft anion lattices

Researchers have designed a new type of antiperovskite that could help replace flammable organic electrolytes in lithium ion batteries. The compound, containing a hydrogen anion and 'soft' chalcogen anions like sulphur, provides an ideal conduction path for lithium and sodium ions.

Shining a light on the weird world of dihydrogen phosphate anions

Researchers at UNSW Sydney have found that dihydrogen phosphate anions, crucial for cellular activity, form clusters in solution due to surprisingly strong hydrogen bonds. This new understanding has implications for controlling the transport of molecules and potentially explaining biological membrane structure.

A new strategy for the greener use of calcium carbide

Researchers propose a new approach to produce calcium acetylide, a key industrial compound, using renewable carbon sources and reducing its environmental impact. The study simulates the interaction of calcium acetylide with water and dimethyl sulfoxide on an atomic scale, revealing potential for greener synthesis methods.

Anions matter

Researchers found that sulfate anions significantly improve the performance of zinc-ion hybrid capacitors, enabling them to operate for over nine months and showing excellent flexibility. The study highlights the importance of electrolyte anions in enhancing the power and energy density of capacitors.