Artificial Photosynthesis I Oxford Open Learning
Artificial photosynthesis

Artificial Photosynthesis


Plants convert only 1-2% of the sunlight they absorb into chemical energy, yet the total energy produced globally through photosynthesis is approximately 130 terawatts; that’s around 8 times more than current human energy consumption. This illustrates the enormous potential for harnessing even a fraction of sunlight to power renewable technologies, such as artificial photosynthesis, which could revolutionise the way we generate and use energy.

Nature’s process of converting sunlight, carbon dioxide and water into energy has long been a subject of interest for scientists, as it holds the potential to become a sustainable and carbon-neutral energy source. However, while progress has been made in laboratory settings, scaling up this technology to a level where it can replace conventional energy sources is still a significant challenge.

Artificial Photosynthesis Theory

The technology behind artificial photosynthesis operates in two main stages. The first involves light absorption, utilising photo-electrochemical (PEC) cells made with semiconductor materials like titanium dioxide. These cells imitate the role of chlorophyll in plants by capturing sunlight. In the second stage, the PEC cells convert the absorbed light into electrical energy. This energy is then used to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen while transforming carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons.

Artificial Photosynthesis Challenges

Significant challenges remain in enhancing the stability and efficiency of the materials used in photo-electrochemical (PEC) cells to capture more sunlight at a reduced cost. One of the primary limitations in this area has been the reliance on rare materials and the complexity of the systems required. Even more pressing, though, is the scalability of this technology to meet global energy demands. To convert sunlight into storable fuels efficiently, integration with existing energy infrastructure is essential – a complex task requiring substantial advancements in both technology and economic feasibility.

Progress In Artificial Photosynthesis

Progress in artificial photosynthesis has advanced rapidly, driven by breakthroughs in nanotechnology, materials science and artificial intelligence. Researchers at the University of Cambridge have, for example, developed an ‘artificial leaf’ that mimics natural photosynthesis, producing syngas – a sustainable liquid fuel alternative to petrol. Additionally, scientists at the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea have made significant strides in solar hydrogen production using advanced photo-electrochemical (PEC) cells. The integration of artificial photosynthesis with other renewable technologies, such as solar panels, has also led to the development of hybrid systems capable of producing both hydrogen fuel and electricity.

While artificial photosynthesis is not yet commercially viable on a large scale, the progress achieved so far holds significant promise. As both governments and private sectors continue to invest in green technologies, it could soon play a pivotal role in addressing the world’s energy and environmental challenges.

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Gavin Crewe is a regular contributor of informative articles to Oxford Home Schooling.

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