Scientists in the US have devised a new chemical compound using rhodium that could have some significant applications.

Brown University's Dwight Sweigart is working on combining hydroquinone – organic crystals used in a wide variety of pharmaceutical and industrial applications – with the pgm in order to devise a new compound which could have major implications for the chemical world.

The result is a compound called rhodium quinones, which Professor Sweigart says is an exciting breakthrough.

"This mixture has marvellous properties," he explained.

"Rhodium quinones are very fast and efficient catalysts. They also have pores, or channels, that act like a sponge, giving them the ability to store gases. The secret is rhodium. It's the Superman of elements."

The compound is expected to be used in a wide range of applications, with catalysis one of the key functions, with the substance expected to be highly useful in the production of cancer drugs.

Rhodium quinones are also useful for creating industrial chemicals, with range of plastics and new materials capable of harnessing the compound.

Crucially rhodium quinones are also said by Professor Sweigart to offer a viable means for storing hydrogen and other gases – potentially a key use in the emerging hydrogen economy.

The work has already been picked up by some of the industry's leading figures, making the cover of the prestigious publication Chemical Communications.


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