‘Microlightning’ released by peeling tape can drive chemical reactions

The intense electric fields generated by peeling tape can produce ‘microlightning’ that can ionise reactants and drive chemical reactions, researchers in China and the US have shown.¹ The researchers believe this demonstrates the usefulness of interfacial electrical discharge in chemical reactions, potentially enabling synthesis of chemicals in greener ways than possible today. It could also provide insights into natural and potentially prebiotic processes.