Scientists find mineral similar to Superman's Kryptonite, could help power electric vehicles

Findings showed that the chemical composition closely matched Superman's fictional Kryptonite (Photo: Scene from Superman Returns, IMDB) A mineral found in Serbia has an unusual connection to Superman's fictional Kryptonite. Known as Jadarite, the white mineral has almost the same chemical composition as the substance that weakens the superhero in comics and films. First discovered in 2004, it attracted international attention in 2007 when scientists identified its similarity to Kryptonite. Nearly two decades later, researchers at London's Natural History Museum have found that the mineral could also become an important source of lithium for electric vehicles in Europe.Unlike the glowing green Kryptonite shown in Superman stories, Jadarite is white, powdery and not radioactive. Its resemblance to the fictional substance is limited to its chemical composition. However, scientists are now more interested in the mineral's potential use in batteries than its connection to the superhero.A study discussed by the Natural History Museum last year examined the conditions under which SJadarite formed and why it has so far been found in only one part of Serbia. The researchers believe that un...