Artificial plants that purify the air

Research on bacteria-powered biobatteries is being reframed. Because? Because they seek to create artificial plants that feed on carbon dioxide. They could emit oxygen and even generate some energy. Artificial plants that purify the air may one day come to our homes.

Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors. The air we breathe at work, school or home affects our overall health and well-being. But most air purification systems are expensive and require frequent cleaning. Or replacing filters to operate at optimal levels.

These are the artificial plants that purify the air.
These are the artificial plants that purify the air.

Generating oxygen

Professor Seokheun “Sean” Choi of the State University of New York develops artificial plants. These use interior light to boost photosynthesis, achieving a 90% reduction in carbon dioxide levels. It far exceeds the 10% reduction seen with natural plants. The results are described in an article recently published in the journal Advanced Sustainable Systems.

“After going through COVID-19, we know the importance of indoor air quality,” Choi said in a statement. “Many sources can generate very toxic materials, such as building materials and carpets. “We exhale and inhale, and that increases carbon dioxide levels.”

Using five biological solar cells and their photosynthetic bacteria, an artificial leaf was created “for fun.” They then realized that the concept has broader implications. They built the first plant with five leaves. They then tested their carbon dioxide capture rates and oxygen generation capacity.

Chargers

Power generation of around 140 microwatts is a secondary benefit. Choi hopes to improve the technology to achieve a minimum output of more than 1 milliwatt. They seek to integrate an energy storage system, such as lithium-ion batteries or supercapacitors. “I want to be able to use this electricity to charge a mobile phone or for other practical uses,” he said.

“I want to be able to use this electricity to charge a mobile phone or for other practical uses,” he said. Multiple species of bacteria could be used to ensure long-term viability and develop ways to minimize maintenance. “Artificial plants that purify the air could be part of every home,” Choi said. “The benefits of this idea are easy to see.”

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