Researchers have developed a breakthrough artificial leaf inspired by photosynthesis that captures CO2 and converts it into sustainable fuels. A collaboration between the University of Cambridge and UC Berkeley, this technology utilizes perovskite materials along with copper 'nanoflowers' to synthesize complex hydrocarbons like ethane and ethylene. Enhancements such as silicon nanowire electrodes and coupled glycerol inputs have made the process remarkably more efficient, yielding valuable byproducts previously deemed waste, thus pushing the envelope of carbon capture technology further.
Glycerol is typically considered waste, but here it acts as an essential ingredient for making the process significantly more efficient.
We wanted to go beyond basic carbon dioxide reduction and produce more complex hydrocarbons, but that requires significantly more energy.
By using nature-inspired technology alongside microscopic copper nanoflowers, we created a system that can turn CO2 into sustainable fuels.
Our research builds on prior Cambridge work into artificial leaves made with perovskite, potentially making solar panels cheaper and more efficient.
#artificial-intelligence #sustainable-energy #climate-change #innovations-in-science #carbon-capture-technology
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