A recent breakthrough in hydrogen research has been achieved by a team from Leipzig University and TU Dresden, as part of the Hydrogen Isotopes 1,2,3H Research Training Group. The team has made progress in the efficient and cost-effective separation of hydrogen isotopes, which are essential for various applications including nuclear fusion and pharmaceutical development. The study, published in Chemical Science, showcases advancements towards room temperature isotope separation, a significant development in the field. The research focuses on the purification and separation of protium, deuterium, and tritium, the three natural forms of hydrogen. These isotopes are crucial for different purposes, such as nuclear fusion and pharmaceutical stability. The current challenges in hydrogen research lie in providing these isotopes in highly pure forms efficiently and cost-effectively due to their similar physical properties. The team's innovative approach involves the use of porous metal-organic frameworks to purify and separate hydrogen isotopes with high selectivity at room temperature. Through state-of-the-art spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations, the researchers have gained insights into the influence of framework atoms on binding selectivity, allowing for the optimization of materials for efficient isotope separation. The 1,2,3H Research Training Group, funded by the German Research Foundation, is playing a crucial role in training doctoral researchers in the field of hydrogen isotopes. The group aims to develop novel materials, more effective drugs, and sensitive detection methods by combining expertise from various institutions. This groundbreaking research paves the way for enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the provision of hydrogen isotopes, contributing significantly to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions.