A new study published in Nature Catalysis challenges conventional wisdom about the durability of iridium oxide, a pivotal catalyst in green hydrogen production. Led by University of Oklahoma's Professor Kasun Gunasooriya, the research unveils that iridium oxide doesn't lose its structure entirely during reactions; instead, it evolves with usage, forming beneficial short-range order patterns. Gunasooriya likens this transformation to a phone battery's reduced efficiency over time. This revelation signals potential cost savings for green hydrogen, which is key to decarbonizing industries. By reducing the required iridium quantity using newly identified active sites, the price of green hydrogen production could see a significant drop, aligning with the DOE's ambitious goal of an 80% cost reduction in hydrogen from renewables. The research not only challenges existing perceptions in the field but also underscores the pivotal role of catalyst materials in advancing sustainable energy solutions. Gunasooriya's computational modeling expertise has been instrumental in this breakthrough, showcasing the University of Oklahoma's commitment to pioneering clean energy research.