Can nature itself be our leading example in solving climate issues? Yes: this artificial leaf might be one of the solutions for global warming. With new and low-cost technology where CO2 is converted into liquid fuel by sunlight, scientists of the University of Waterloo may solve the enormous problem of rising greenhouse levels.
A Breakthrough In Converting CO2 Into Liquid
Scientists from the University of Waterloo claim that their artificial leaf can convert CO2 into liquid. The new technology can turn carbon dioxide into fuel, with Mother Earth as an inspiration. The artificial leaf mimics photosynthesis in nature, hence the invention’s name, ‘leaf.’ With the help of a cheap red powder called cuprous oxide, CO2 can be converted into methanol and oxygen – and these substances are again converted into fuel. This cuprous oxide is found in abundance in nature.
What is cuprous oxide?
Curpous oxide, or red copper oxide or Cu2O, is a red coloured crystal of powder, and oxide of copper - and found in nature as cuprite.
Fuel Efficiency Larger Than Natural Photosynthesis
Oil bubble abstract
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The inexpensive technology can hopefully help in the fight against rising greenhouse gas levels. The University of Waterloo's research team's motivation to develop this artificial leaf is to ‘reduce carbon dioxide emissions, a greenhouse gas, and hopefully reduce global warming and provide sustainable energy.’ It seems to be working: lead researcher Yimin Wu said: "This technology has achieved the solar to the fuel efficiency of about 10 percent. This is already larger than the natural photosynthesis (about one percent)."
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What´s Next For The Artificial Leaf?
How does photosynthesis work simple?
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants and other things make food. It is an endothermic (takes in heat) chemical process that uses sunlight to turn carbon dioxide into sugars that the cell can use as energy. As well as plants, many kinds of algae, protists and bacteria use it to get food.
It could take a while for the artificial leaf to be commercialized. Further research is needed to increase ethanol during the process before the technology is offered to industrial companies. In a partnership with industry companies, more efficient artificial leaves can be developed – but this can take up to a few years. Professor Wu says that oil, steel, and automotive companies will take advantage of the technology to reduce their carbon emissions. On that note, he tells Independent: “I’m extremely excited about the potential of this discovery to change the game. Climate change is an urgent problem, and we can help reduce carbon dioxide emissions while also creating an alternative fuel.”
Lead researcher Yimin Wu
Before you go!
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