In October 2020, the journal Nature published a sensational article in which the group of Associate Professor Rang Diaz from the University of Rochester reported the discovery of a superconductor that exhibits its properties at only 15°C. The article was reviewed and perceived as a breakthrough. However, criticism soon came from independent researchers. No one could replicate the methods described in the article, and after the scandal in 2021, the article was withdrawn from the magazine.

This happened two years before news about LK-99, South Korea’s alleged “indoor” superconductor. Diaz’s group studied a different class of materials, and the superconductivity they allegedly achieved occurred at a completely different chamber pressure. It was about nitrogen-doped lutetium hydride. According to Diaz, the material became a superconductor at pressures between 1.4 and 2.8 million atmospheres. What was important here was the pressure at 15 °C, which had never been achieved before under similar conditions. However, it turned out that all of these were fake. Interestingly, after the first paper was retracted, the group published a second paper on achieving superconductivity at 21 °C in 2023, which was also later retracted.

“Our university completed a comprehensive research by a group of academics who are experts in their fields and are not affiliated with the university. – says the statement of the representative of the University of Rochester Sarah Miller (Sarah Miller) source for The Verge. “The committee concluded that, in accordance with university policy and federal regulations, Diaz violated the rules for conducting research.”

It is also possible that other methods of disciplinary action may be applied to the scientist, and this will primarily concern the re-evaluation of his position and work duties at the university. This is handled by the relevant structures of this educational institution.