Scientists create flexible boron allotrope with high conductivity
Researchers published findings on a new flexible boron form called Imma-B60 in the journal Nature Chemistry on September 25, 2026.
New structure enables flexibility
Scientists produced this material by removing sodium from a sodium boride compound. The resulting atoms arrange into a porous framework made of 12-atom cages linked by triangular units. This arrangement allows the substance to deform by 23 percent without breaking.
Electrical performance improves greatly
The new allotrope conducts electricity ten million times better than standard boron forms. Its narrow bandgap measures under 0.2 electron volts according to the study data. This property distinguishes it from other boron structures that lack both plasticity and high conductivity.
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