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Scientists create 'diamonds' from tequila

Researchers, at the University of Nueva Leon, near Monterrey, in Mexico, have discovered a new way to make a type of synthetic diamond - from tequila. When the Mexican spirit is heated under pressure, it produces diamond structures, which are able to conduct electricity. The crystals, used to make diamond film, have previously been made from a number of different chemicals, often including nitrogen.

However, the experiment is believed to be the first time that researchers have proved that any type of alcohol can be used to produce synthetic diamond.

Diamond film is tougher than silicon, so it could be useful for devices that must operate at high temperatures or under other harsh conditions.

However, diamond films are expensive and difficult to make. Now, researchers from Mexico have shown that the crystals can be created by heating the country's national drink.

For the experiment, the researchers heated 80% proof 'tequila blanco', which has a short aging process and is bottled soon after distillation, in a low-pressure chamber. The drink formed into crystals which tests later confirmed had a diamond structure and were able to conduct electricity.

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