Scientists discover ‘hidden materials’ that may lead to better batteries and solar fuels

An international research team has uncovered a class of previously unknown “hidden materials” by tracking the elusive, split-second changes that occur as molecules decompose under heat. The findings, published in Nature Communications, may unlock new pathways to develop more efficient solar fuel systems and higher-capacity batteries.Why this discovery is importantTypically, when materials scientists create solid compounds through thermal processing, attention is paid almost entirely to the final outcome – which is essentially moving straight from starting material “A” to end product “B.” However, by freezing and analysing the fleeting intermediate phases that arise during the heating cycle, researchers discovered entirely new structures that are difficult or impossible to manufacture using standard synthesis methods.“When materials are made by heating, scientists usually focus on the final product, the 'B' that results from 'A.'