Aquaman CrystalsPrepared by Jordan Hansen

The ObjectiveScientists at the

University of Southern Denmark believe it is possible to one day get rid of big oxygen tanks in exchange for tiny crystals with oxygen molecules stored in them.

How Is It Done?

A specially designed molecule called “cobalt” is used to chemically bind to oxygen molecules in the air or in water.

Cobalt crystals have a lattice electronic structure which allows the binding to take place.

It works the same way as a human breathing. As we breathe, oxygen molecules attach to hemoglobin proteins in our blood. The cobalt crystals bind, store, and transport oxygen molecules the same way.

However, the crystals can release oxygen as well…

Current Successes in ResearchResearchers have found a way to

not only absorb oxygen in air or water, but also to release the oxygen as well.

Scientists have successfully sucked all of the oxygen out of a room using a 10 liter bucket of crystals.

Researchers have studied the arrangement of atoms inside the crystalline when filled with oxygen, and when empty.

Change in color can indicate whether oxygen is present or not

Future Research and ApplicationsResearchers hope to develop a simple mask layered with oxygen-layered cobalt crystals, making it possible to: Being able to breathe under water

without a tank for long periods of time.

Hikers can reach tremendous altitudes without the assistance of an oxygen tank.

Lung patients will no longer need to carry a bulky oxygen tank around.

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