News: IISER Thiruvananthapuram scientists developed a solid organometallic compound that releases hydrogen (H₂) + methane (CH₄) when heated.
Key Features
- Composition: Magnesium + zinc + hydrogen + carbon.
- Nature: Crystalline solid at room temperature.
- Gas release: Both gases released at around 80–110°C under suitable solvent-free, oxygen-free conditions.
- Reaction sequence: Methane released before hydrogen.
- Applications: Potential fuel-gas storage + controlled release + easier transportation.
Limitations
- Moisture-sensitive → Difficult handling and storage.
- Reusability after gas release remains unproven.
- Further research needed for practical applications.