Waterproof Electricity

Researchers at Oxford University proudly announced the development and successful testing of a new material which will conduct electricity even when underwater. The so-called 'waterproof electricity' is the result of a new type of plastic which will conduct an electric current but prevents any "leakage" of electric charges into the water.  Their findings, published in Materials Journal, mark a significant point in global materials development.

Historically, water has always been the biggest enemy of electrical devices. The only way to protect devices which are to be used underwater has been to physically coat them in a waterproof and airtight layer, leading to cumbersome and clunky devices, and as they to be operated underwater, this additional layer has made them particularly difficult to use.

Professor David Armstrong, the team leader at Oxford, explained, "As per recent information, we have been able to conduct electricity through our new material without any loss of current to the surrounding water. Clearly this opens up all kinds of applications, from underwater research to making domestic mobile devices waterproof." 

Dr Emily Turner, a senior researcher on the team, added, "The potential for this material is immense. We are looking at applications in underwater robotics, marine exploration, and even in everyday consumer electronics. The ability to have devices that are both electrically conductive and waterproof could revolutionize many industries."

Professor Mauro Pasta, another key researcher, emphasized the collaborative effort: "This project has been a true interdisciplinary endeavor, combining expertise from materials science, chemistry, and electrical engineering. The synergy between these fields has been crucial in achieving this breakthrough."

The research for the new polymer is based on PTFE (Teflon) which is water resistant, while having additional atom chains which enable it to conduct electricity.  Known as Fluoro-Ortho-Oxy Limonene, it's a highly oxygenated organic molecule formed from the oxidation of limonene. It features a unique structure that includes both closed-shell and open-shell peroxy radicals, which contribute to its exceptional properties.  Part of its structure is shown below. Its full chemical structure and further details will be released in an online article at noon today.