Scientists from the University of Basel presented a breakthrough in the field of artificial photosynthesis, which could potentially revolutionize the production of carbon-neutral fuels. The team at the university developed a molecular complex capable of storing four charges from light simultaneously, mimicking the process of natural photosynthesis.
In nature, plants harness solar energy to convert carbon dioxide into sugars, which are then consumed by animals and humans. This new molecular complex aims to replicate this cycle in a lab setting, but instead of producing sugars, it can generate hydrogen, methanol, or synthetic gasoline. These alternative fuels can be burned without releasing additional carbon dioxide, making them environmentally friendly.
The molecule created by the team consists of five interconnected parts, with one central element capturing photons, two blocks providing electrons and becoming positively charged, and two more blocks accepting electrons and acquiring a negative charge. This configuration allows the molecule to accumulate two positive and two negative charges after two rounds of light exposure.
This breakthrough addresses a major challenge in artificial photosynthesis, which is the need for multiple electrons to carry out reactions like the decomposition of water into oxygen and hydrogen. By successfully storing these charges in one place, the process becomes more efficient even with low light intensity. The researchers were able to operate with sunlight-like brightness, a significant improvement from previous experiments that required powerful lasers.
Although this development is not a complete artificial photosynthesis system, it represents a crucial building block for future applications. The ability to handle multiple charges effectively paves the way for practical implementation of this technology. This molecular complex could serve as a foundation for solar-powered installations that convert sunlight into hydrogen fuel or synthetic hydrocarbons, offering a more sustainable energy solution. The study was published in the journal Nature Chemistry, showcasing a promising advancement towards a more stable and efficient technology.