Researchers from Linköping University's Laboratory of Organic Electronics have figured out how to combine bioelectronic devices with organic root systems to create electronic flowers. The result of their efforts is a beautiful bouquet that can change colors.
The project initially began as an experiment to add conductive inks to celery and flowers. Unfortunately, the experiment failed when the plants died soon after the color was added. The scientists then repeated the experiment with coloring aggregates in the water channels instead of conductive ink. The coloring aggregates formed conducting filaments, which allowed the leaves to change color when external electrodes were applied. The result is electronic flowers that are capable of changing shades.
While the color change is subtle, the technology can be used as a visual way to determine charge storage capacity in plants.
What's Driving This Trend
- Bioelectronic Devices
- Opportunity for developing bioelectronic devices that combine with organic systems to create innovative products.
- Conductive Inks
- Potential for developing conductive inks that can be integrated into plants to create color-changing capabilities.
- Charge Storage Capacity
- Exploration of using color change in plants as an indicator of their charge storage capacity.
Who This Affects Most
- Electronics
- Opportunity for electronics industry to collaborate with biologists in creating bioelectronic devices with color-changing capabilities.
- Printing
- Printing industry can explore the development of conductive inks that can be applied to plants for various applications.
- Agriculture
- Opportunity for agricultural industry to leverage color change in plants as an indicator of charge storage capacity, aiding in plant health monitoring.
