Mimicking Nature, Water-Based 'Artificial Leaf' Produces Electricity

A team led by a North Carolina State University researcher has shown that water-gel-based solar devices -- 'artificial leaves' -- can act like solar cells to produce electricity.  The findings prove the concept for making solar cells that more closely mimic nature, specifically photosynthesis.  They also have the potential to be less expensive and more environmentally friendly than the current standard-bearer: silicon-based solar cells.

The research team hopes to learn how to mimic the materials by which nature harnesses solar energy.  Although synthetic light-sensitive molecules can be used, naturally derived products, such as chlorophyll, are also easily integrated in these devices because of their water-gel mix.

Now that they've proven the concept, NC State's Dr. Orlin Velev asserts that researchers will work to fine-tune the water-based gel and light-sensitive molecules to improve the efficiency of the solar cells.

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