They are used to make sushi and cosmetic products. What if they could also charge our phones? Researchers have succeeded in producing energy through the photosynthesis process of algae. Ultimately, the development of this technology could make it possible to produce affordable electricity, day and night, with a negative carbon footprint, according to a study by Concordia University.
To arrive at their conclusions, the researchers constructed “cells” — small polymer platelets with a surface area of 2 cm2 and a thickness of 4 mm. Inside, two compartments in which the algae float in a liquid solution.
During the day, particles charged with electricity are produced through the process of photosynthesis, during which algae absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen and electrons. In the evening, despite the absence of light, the algae will still produce electrons through a “breathing” process. A membrane that connects the two compartments containing algae will capture electrons and create an electric current.
“Our system traps electrons, which allows us to produce electricity,” explains researcher Kirankumar Kuruvinashetti, one of the co-authors of the study, in an explanatory note. It is therefore not simply a carbon-neutral technology, but a carbon-negative technology: it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and generates an electric current. Its only byproduct is water. »
“It’s very similar to photovoltaic solar panels,” said in an interview with Duty Concordia University professor and study co-author Muthukumaran Packirisamy. Except that, in this case, electricity production occurs day and night. Currently, the voltage created by one of these cells can reach only one volt. But by grouping several of these cells in an optimal sequence, we could create a viable energy source, according to the researcher.
Beautiful, good, inexpensive
“The idea now is to take these cells to another level,” continues Mr. Packirisamy. If we line up thousands of them, we could produce a considerable amount of energy, which could have real applications, such as recharging your phone or your computer. This would be particularly useful in remote locations without access to the power grid. »
The materials used to create these electric cells represent another advantage to this technology, according to the professor. “We use biodegradable polymers,” he explains, which are easily decomposed and inexpensive. As for the algae, they can simply be replaced if they deteriorate.
The expert imagines a future where we could cover a wall with these cells. In this way, “we could produce electricity, produce oxygen and insulate buildings”, with the result of a reduction in the electricity bill – the system would absorb heat and reduce the need for air conditioning.
Another virtue not to be overlooked: “It could have great aesthetic value. Several architects are integrating “green walls” [couverts de plantes à leurs projets]. It could be the same thing. »
Passing the baton to businesses
What are the next steps to make such a project feasible? We need to push the research further and explore the commercialization potential of the technology, says the researcher. He wants companies to take over developing and producing large-scale uses.
“We continue to work,” says Mr. Packirisamy, “and we hope that one day the market will be interested in this technology. […] It may take time, a bit like with electric cars, it will have taken several years before we see them on the roads. »
However, he says he is convinced of the commercialization potential of this technology. “It’s green, it’s renewable and it works 24 hours a day.”
This content is produced in collaboration with Concordia University.
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