Humans may soon be able to breathe underwater, scientists say
Scuba diving is the closest way humankind can get to experience the beautiful world that lies underwater. However, a new material synthesized by researchers in a laboratory in Denmark may one day allow us to go underwater without any oxygen tanks.
The main component in the synthesized crystalline material is cobalt, arranged in a unique molecular structure.
"Cobalt gives the new material precisely the molecular and electronic structure that enables it to absorb oxygen from its surroundings," said Professor Christine McKenzie from the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark.
"This mechanism is well known from all breathing creatures on earth: Humans and many other species use iron, while other animals, like crabs and spiders, use copper. Small amounts of metals are essential for the absorption of oxygen, so actually it is not entirely surprising to see this effect in our new material."
The "Aquaman Crystal" is sponge-like in consistency and uses cobalt bound in an organic molecule, getting its nickname from the DC comic book character that can swim underwater.
This could be valuable for lung patients who today must carry heavy oxygen tanks with them," said professor Christine McKenzie of the University of Southern Denmark, in a statement. "But also divers may one day be able to leave the oxygen tanks at home and instead get oxygen from this material as it 'filters' and concentrates oxygen from surrounding air or water. A few grains contain enough oxygen for one breath, and as the material can absorb oxygen from the water around the diver and supply the diver with it, the diver will not need to bring more than these few grains."
