#protons

Hidden proton pathways emerge as ultrathin polymer film method splits interface signals

Understanding how protons move at the interface between polymers and electrode materials is essential for improving fuel cells and related energy devices. However, conventional impedance measurements under inert conditions have long masked these interfacial contributions, showing only a single, merged signal. Now, researchers at the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, in collaboration with Tokyo University of Science and University of Calgary, have developed a method to experimentally separate and quantify proton transport at individual interfaces in ultrathin ionomer films. The study was published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.

What is the heaviest element in the universe? Are there infinitely many elements? Where and how could superheavy elements be created naturally? The heaviest abundant element known to exist is uranium, with 92 protons (the atomic number "Z"). But scientists have succeeded in synthesizing superheavy elements up to oganesson, with a Z of 118. Immediately before it are livermorium, with 116 protons and tennessine, which has 117.