The Be6B11- nanocluster system has two low-lying structures, a triple-layered isomer and a boron helix-type one. [Photo/sxu.edu.cn]

Shanxi University's nanocluster lab has made a significant breakthrough in the theoretical design of a molecular motor.

The research team, headed by Professor Zhai Huajin, discovered two new low-lying structures of the Be₆B₁₁- nanocluster system, a triple-layered isomer and a boron helix-type one. They are virtually isoenergetic and the dynamic motion of the former is similar to the earth-moon system.

The finding was published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition, one of the world's most important chemistry journals.

Recent years have seen increased interest in molecular machine research. The achievement of

Zhai's team will contribute to the development of this emerging field.

The research group was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China which has made a series of achievements over the past few years.