A team of Binghamton University researchers, inspired by their previous research about bacteria-powered biobatteries, has developed artificial plants that can feed off of carbon dioxide, give off oxygen and generate power.

The team used five biological solar cells in addition to their photosynthetic bacteria to create an artificial leaf to serve as a type of air purification system. An entire plant built featuring five of these leaves was tested to determine its carbon dioxide capture rates and oxygen generation capability.

Source: Binghamton UniversitySource: Binghamton University

"Especially after going through COVID-19, we know the significance of indoor air quality," the researchers explained. "Many sources can generate very toxic materials, like building materials and carpets. We breathe out and breathe in, and that builds up carbon dioxide levels. Also, there are risks from cooking and infiltration from the outdoors."

Having also achieved power generation of roughly 140 microwatts with the device, the developers aim to improve the technology so that the plant will eventually achieve a minimum output of more than 1 milliwatt — sufficient to charge a cell phone, for instance.

The team also hopes to eventually use multiple bacteria species to ensure long-term viability and develop ways to reduce maintenance, such as water and nutrient delivery systems. Additionally, the team hopes that, with some fine-tuning, the artificial plant will be used in virtually every household as an air purification system.

The researchers detailed their findings in the article “Cyanobacterial Artificial Plants for Enhanced Indoor Carbon Capture and Utilization,” which appears in the journal Advanced Sustainable Systems.

To contact the author of this article, email mdonlon@globalspec.com