Scientists Control Energy Flow in Molecules for Better Solar Cells and Diagnostics
An international team, led by Prof. Heinrich Lang and the University of Alberta, has made a significant breakthrough in controlling energy flow in molecules. Their study, focusing on a process called 'singlet fission', could pave the way for improved solar cells and novel medical diagnostics.
The researchers discovered a way to switch singlet fission on and off using a molecule from the tetrazine group. This molecule glows in acidic environments and remains dark in alkaline conditions, a property that could be exploited for diagnostic purposes.
The team, led by Prof. Heinrich Lang, achieved this by manipulating the molecule's pH value. This breakthrough could contribute to the development of novel sensors for medical diagnostics, as well as optimize singlet fission for more efficient solar cells and quantum computing. The study provides valuable insights into how singlet fission unfolds in tetrazines.
The international team's research, published in Nature Communications, demonstrates a novel method of controlling energy flow in molecules using pH. This advancement could lead to significant improvements in solar technology, diagnostics, and quantum computing.
