Clathrate material’s crystal structure finally solved, 80 years after it was first discovered

Structure

Source: © 2025 Sanehiro Muromachi et al/American Chemical Society

TBAB hydrate is the most widely used semiclathrate hydrate, with potential uses in heat storage and air conditioning

The exact crystal structure of the stable form of a widely used semiclathrate hydrate has finally been elucidated – 80 years after the material was first discovered. The work provides deeper understanding for researchers aiming to use these cage-like structures in various industrial applications.