U of Cambridge Scientists Boast a New Renewable Energy Device
A new renewable energy device has been developed by scientists at the University of Cambridge, UK. The innovation is inspired by natural processes and appeals to the biomimicry design approaches. More specifically, the scientists looked at how plants create their own energy.
The ground-breaking renewable energy device is made out of photocatalysts—that is, materials that absorb light to create a reaction. The slim sheet is capable of absorbing water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight in order to produce oxygen and formic acid—the latter of which can be "stored and used as fuel on its own, or turned into hydrogen fuel." The sheet is based in cobalt and when submerged in a bath of water and carbon dioxide, the chemical reaction occurs. It requires no wires or electricity in order to operate.
Image Credit: Dezeen
The ground-breaking renewable energy device is made out of photocatalysts—that is, materials that absorb light to create a reaction. The slim sheet is capable of absorbing water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight in order to produce oxygen and formic acid—the latter of which can be "stored and used as fuel on its own, or turned into hydrogen fuel." The sheet is based in cobalt and when submerged in a bath of water and carbon dioxide, the chemical reaction occurs. It requires no wires or electricity in order to operate.
Image Credit: Dezeen
Trend Themes
1. Renewable Energy - The development of photosynthesis-mimicking devices opens up new opportunities for renewable energy generation by harnessing natural processes.
2. Biomimicry Design - The use of biomimicry in the design of renewable energy devices allows for more efficient and sustainable solutions.
3. Hydrogen Fuel Production - The ability of the photocatalytic sheet to produce formic acid and hydrogen fuel presents a disruptive innovation opportunity in the fuel production industry.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - The renewable energy industry can leverage photosynthesis-mimicking devices to improve energy generation and storage.
2. Materials Science - The development of new photocatalysts and materials to enhance the efficiency of photosynthesis-mimicking devices provides opportunities for the materials science industry.
3. Fuel Production - The fuel production industry can explore the use of photosynthesis-mimicking devices for sustainable and efficient hydrogen fuel production.
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