20/12/2025
Scientists have developed a new metal‑oxide crystal made from strontium, iron and cobalt that shows the remarkable ability to absorb and then release oxygen again and again without falling apart. The material works under much gentler conditions than previous “oxygen switching” compounds, making it a strong candidate for real‑world applications.
What makes this discovery particularly exciting is how the crystal behaves: when heated in a controlled gas environment, it gives up oxygen, changing its structure and properties such as transparency and electrical resistance. Then when exposed to oxygen again, it reverts back to its original state. This reversible “breathing” of oxygen offers a new dimension of control over how a material behaves in electronics, energy systems and building materials.
The implications are wide‑ranging. For example, the crystal could be used in advanced fuel cells that convert hydrogen to electricity more efficiently, or in smart windows that alter light or heat flow depending on conditions. By being stable through many cycles of oxygen intake and release and functioning under milder temperatures, this material brings us closer to reactive materials that adapt and change in real time.
Research Paper 📄
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62612-1