The main source of energy (electrical, in particular) is used to heat human fossil fuel combustion, but such a method for producing a valuable resource is associated with some disadvantages. First, it is inevitable pollution of the biosphere by harmful substances produced during the combustion of fuel, there is a particularly acute problem in the major industrial areas. Second, the question is often raised about the depletion of mineral resources and the dead-end path of development of traditional energy.
But traditional and alternative energy exists. Here, researchers are working on the development of methods of producing energy from a range of renewable or virtually inexhaustible sources. In this case, has a lot of potential solar energy: one hour sun provides our planet so much energy, which is enough to meet all the needs of the person throughout the year. The main problem in this case is, however, not the source,but the method of converting solar energy.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab, working at the Joint Center for Artificial Photosynthesis (Joint Center for Artificial Photosynthesis, JCAP), developed the first fully integrated microfluidic device for the evaluation and optimization of systems at the microscopic level, the electrochemical conversion under the influence of sunlight. According to the press service of the laboratory, the installation has already been used to study the photo-electric schemes electrolysis of water, the appliance can easily be adapted for the study of artificial photosynthesis and fuel cells.
Artificial photosynthesis systems are considered as one of the most promising ways to use solar energy. JCAP scientists are working to create appropriate devices through special membranes that can carry out photosynthesis efficient natural counterparts. Thus the products obtained as a result of artificial elements to be used for stored fuel (hydrogen, hydrocarbons, for example).
The microfluidic device will allow scientists to test and optimize the system of artificial photosynthesis for example, small devices. Subsequently, the experimental data may be used to create large-scale plants. Related Products :
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