VCU discovers potential energy source

A VCU-led project discovered a new compound of aluminum and hydrogen. The findings could inspire similar research with increased funding in the future, raising an incentive for prospective students interested in science.

Distinguished professor of physics Puru Jena, Assistant Professor Kiran Boggavarapu and Kit Bowen Jr., chemistry professor at Johns Hopkins University, led the research.

“Developing new materials and compounds that meet some of the current technological problems in energy-related fields is always a challenge,” Jena said in a press release. “Our collaborative work has demonstrated that a synergy between experiment and theory can go a long way in meeting these challenges.”

The newly discovered aluminum-hydrogen hydride has a similar composition to borane – a boron-and-hydrogen compound. The Al4-H6 molecule was found to be relatively stable and has a potential for use in alternative energy sources and rocket fuels.

“Our research finding is interesting enough for me to be willing to say that this discovery may have the potential for some possibly very useful and interesting future applications, including some in the forecasted ‘hydrogen economy,’ ” Bowen said.

Aluminum already is used in most solid rocket fuels. The metal is known for its strength and light weight. Airplane bodies are made of about 80 percent aluminum, while NASA uses 90 percent aluminum to construct its spacecraft.

The findings were published in the Jan. 19 issue of the journal Science. The United States Air Force Office of Scientific Research and the United States Department of Energy supported the research.