New crystal allows divers to stay underwater for hours

Ever wanted to breathe underwater? You might be able to in the near future.

Scientists at the University of Southern Denmark have developed a “crystalline substance that can bind and store oxygen in high concentrations” according to Mic. Apart from the possibility from breathing underwater, these crystals can also be used in lieu of oxygen tanks for people, industries, and even vehicles as a source of fuel. These crystals act as both a sensor and a container for oxygen molecules; they bind, store, and transport the oxygen within their structure.

The crystals function through their unique molecular and electronic structure. Cobalt is used in the material and the resulting molecular and electronic structure gives it an affinity to oxygen which allows it to be readily absorbed and bonded with the crystal.