Graphene, a single atomic layer of graphite, display several unusual properties originating from its honeycomb structure that can allow physicists to observe strange relativistic effects at a speed much slower than the speed of light. Researchers from UNAM, Bilkent University predicted that graphene flakes with both sides covered by Ca monolayers can also be used for high-capacity hydrogen storage medium.

Developing safe and efficient hydrogen storage is essential for hydrogen economy. Recently efforts have been devoted to develop carbon based nanostructures, which can absorb H2 molecules with high storage capacity, but can release them easily in the course of consumption in fuel cells.

Hydrogen being lightest element in the universe does not allow an efficient storage in pressured tanks. The storage mechanism predicted through high performance computations based on quantum mechanics appears to be feasible using graphene flakes. This work also reveals another interesting aspect of graphene.