The global scientific arena has long pursued the dream of endless energy. From lunar minerals to peculiar molecules seemingly defying physics, the spectrum of possibilities has been vast.
Currently, however, experts might have pinpointed a method that leverages artificial photosynthesis, replicating the energy generation process of plants for human use.
This technique emerged from novel studies where experts effectively replicated the natural mechanism of photosynthesis to generate methane. This potent fuel source is derived simply from water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight.
The findings are detailed in a recent article in “ACS Engineering”. Should this approach be expanded, artificial photosynthesis might eclipse solar panels, offering an infinite and eco-friendly energy alternative, a quest that has spanned many years.
Under the leadership of Kazunari Domen, the engineering group went beyond by crafting a mechanism that segregates water into hydrogen and oxygen gas via sunlight.
Their aspiration was to refine this mechanism, drawing inspiration from plants, capturing carbon dioxide, and storing solar energy in methane, essentially forging a synthetic photosynthesis model.
This system bears similarities to solar panels. But instead of merely capturing and reserving solar energy, it employs the plant’s photosynthetic process to yield even greater reservable energy.
Naturally, expanding this system to cater to an entire metropolis poses challenges, which are addressed in the team’s publication along with potential resolutions.
Given the system’s dependency on methane to conserve solar energy, ensuring a leak-proof model is paramount. A compromised system could exacerbate greenhouse gas emissions, aggravating existing climate challenges and amplifying global warming threats.
