Microcrystal electron diffractometer brings hidden hydrogen into focus
Hydrogen—the lightest atom—does the heavy lifting when it comes to important chemical reactions. It can be stored and released as clean fuel, and its movements help catalysts build medicines, fertilizers and materials. One way hydrogen is available for use is through a hydride—a hydrogen (H) atom bound to a metal. Yet with standard tools, this metal-bound atom can be hard to find in the structure.
Hydrogen, the lightest atom, plays a crucial role in numerous chemical reactions. It can be stored and released as a clean fuel, and its movements assist in the formation of catalysts for medicines, fertilizers, and materials. However, identifying the hydride, a hydrogen atom bound to a metal, has been challenging using standard tools.
A new study led by Yale researchers has found that a microcrystal electron diffractometer (MicroED) can accurately locate the hydride better than traditional X-ray methods. This discovery offers a practical and more accessible approach to understanding and designing catalysts and other molecules.
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