Researchers Unveil Supercharged Rocket Fuel with 150% More Energy Density

New Rocket Fuel Compound Packs 150% More Energy In a breakthrough that could revolutionize space travel, researchers at the University at Albany, SUNY have developed a new boron-rich compound that delivers significantly more energy density than current solid-rocket materials. The manganese diboride compound, synthesized through an ultra-hot process, releases 150% more energy relative to its weight and volume upon ignition. According to Assistant Professor of Chemistry Michael Yeung, who led the research team, "In rocket ships, space is at a premium. Every inch counts, and this new fuel could make a huge difference in terms of efficiency and payload capacity." The study was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society on September 30, 2025. The manganese diboride compound's high energy density is attributed to its unique atomic structure, which is formed during the ultra-hot synthesis process. This strained atomic arrangement allows for a more efficient release of energy when ignited. "It's like a tightly wound spring," said Yeung. "When you release it, it goes 'boom' with a lot more force than current fuels." The implications of this discovery are far-reaching and could have significant impacts on the space industry. With the ability to carry more payload or travel longer distances without refueling, spacecraft designers may be able to create more efficient and cost-effective missions. Background research on rocket fuel compounds has been ongoing for decades, but this new development marks a significant breakthrough in terms of energy density. Current solid-rocket materials have limitations in terms of their energy release, which can lead to reduced payload capacity or longer flight times. While the University at Albany team's discovery is exciting, experts caution that further research and testing are needed before widespread adoption. "This is an important step forward, but we need to see more data on its stability and performance under various conditions," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a rocket propulsion expert from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The University at Albany team plans to continue researching the properties of manganese diboride and exploring potential applications beyond rocket fuel. "We're excited about the possibilities this compound holds not just for space travel but also for other fields like energy storage and materials science," said Yeung. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with rocket propulsion, this new development serves as a reminder of the power of scientific innovation to transform industries and change our understanding of the world. *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*