How sunburn inspired a new way to store energy

Molecules that can capture heat could be a useful technology to decarbonise heating.

Molecules that can capture heat could be a useful technology to decarbonise heating.

Molecules that can capture heat could be a useful technology to decarbonise heating.

Researchers developed a melanin-inspired organic supercapacitor by 2025, adapting the pigment that prevents sunburn to store electrical energy. By using the redox-active properties of melanin, the technology replaces heavy metals with biocompatible polymers, targeting a shift in the production of wearable medical devices and sustainable electronics.

Chemist Grace Han has developed a molecular system inspired by DNA's response to sunlight, aiming to create a clean and efficient method of storing solar energy for extended periods.