Scientists at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory unexpectedly created gold hydride under extreme heat and pressure, revealing surprising possibilities in gold and hydrogen chemistry. Credit: SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory via Science Daily
Scientists at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory found that gold which is typically unreactive can form gold hydride under extreme conditions. The researchers made this discovery through their investigation of diamond formation by compressing materials inside a diamond anvil cell and heating them with intense X-ray pulses. Under these conditions gold foil reacted with hydrogen to produce gold hydride which enables scientists to analyze dense hydrogen similar to what exists inside planets. The compound exhibits superionic behavior through which hydrogen ions move freely within the gold lattice structure thus enhancing its electrical conductivity. The discovery reveals that metals which appear inert can create unexpected new materials through high pressure and heat conditions.
References:
ScienceDaily. (2025, August 10) . Accidental lab discovery reveals gold’s secret chemistry. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250810094401.htm
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. (2025). Gold hydride discovery under extreme heat and pressure [Image]. ScienceDaily.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250810094401.htm