We all have read about photosynthesis in high school and still remember that it is a process used by plants to convert light energy into chemical energy. In simple terms green plants use energy from the sun to transform water, carbon dioxide, and minerals into oxygen and organic compounds. If we want to see it in equation form then it will be something like
Carbon dioxide + water + light energy = carbohydrate + oxygen
You will be surprised to know that researchers have created design for artificial photosynthesis. And this idea and concept of artificial photosynthesis is very flexible in terms of material used and the size of system. Solar and wind energy are going to be the main source of energy in the future. And keeping in mind the fluctuating nature of these renewable resources, researchers are focusing on efficient storage technologies. And these technologies should also be environment friendly and affordable. Photosynthesis employing a combination of solar cell and electrolyser is one such technology.
Scientists are now concentrating to take this technology and concept from the laboratory to its practical use. Two experts from Juelich’s Institute of Energy and Climate Research have developed a compact, self –contained system made up of completely low cost, readily available materials.
Presently the surface area of this design is 64cm square which appears relatively small. But this design is quite flexible; in future by repeating the basic units it will be possible to manufacture the systems that are several square meters in size. The basic unit itself has several solar cells connected to each other which means that if connected in series each unit will produce the voltage of 1.8 volt; necessary for hydrogen production.
Presently the solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of this prototype is 3.9% which is definitely less. But this is just the first draft and there is plenty of room for improvement. And scientists are of opinion that within a relatively short span of time the efficiency of this design could be increased by 10%, using conventional solar cells materials. One of the biggest advantages of this new design is that, it enables the two main components to be optimized separately: the photovoltaic part that produces electricity from solar energy and the electrochemical part that uses electricity for splitting water.
So, wait for some time and you will see this artificial photosynthesis being launched in the market!!
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Author: Technology and Beyond