Scientists at Linkinging University have successfully created a new material that is thinner than a single atom, known as “goldene”. This innovative material was made using a technique borrowed from Japanese ironsmiths, and has the potential to revolutionize carbon dioxide conversion and hydrogen production.
The high surface area to volume ratio of 2D materials makes them unique in optics, electronics, and catalysis. While many examples of 2D materials exist, most are nonmetals or mixed compounds. Creating a pure metal sheet just one molecule thick is an incredibly challenging task.
To achieve this breakthrough, Shun Kashiwaya and his team at Linkinging University carefully separated a layer of gold atoms to create goldene. They did this by creating a multi-layer structure of titanium, silicon, and carbon, then coating it with gold. By carefully separating the surrounding solid material using a chemical etching agent, they were able to isolate the goldene layer intact. Adding the amino acid cysteine as a surfactant helped stabilize the layer and prevent clustering of gold atoms.
Goldene’s enhanced reactivity makes it valuable for converting carbon dioxide into fuels like ethanol and methane, as well as producing hydrogen from water. The research team continues to refine the synthesis method to optimize the properties of this groundbreaking material.
In conclusion, scientists at Linkinging University have created a new material called “goldene” that is thinner than a single atom. This innovative material has potential applications in carbon dioxide conversion and hydrogen production due to its unique properties in optics, electronics, and catalysis. The research team continues to refine the synthesis method to optimize its properties for future use in various industries.
