Researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland, Experiment on Developing a New Molecule Under Light

Researchers conducted an experiment related to plant photosynthesis at the University of Basel in Switzerland. The project aimed to use sunlight to develop a new molecule that can store positive and negative charges at the same time. A huge leap forward in the science of using sunlight to generate carbon-neutral fuels.

Artificial Photosynthesis Inspired by Plants

The scientists at the University of Basel have successfully created a molecule from plants that can store up to four charges using sunlight. This is a ground-breaking discovery in the field of artificial photosynthesis.

Artificial photosynthesis is a human mimicry of naturally occurring photosynthesis. The process uses sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water molecules into energy carriers like hydrogen and other essential fuels.

While these experiments were conducted in the past, they remained unsuccessful. The new approach uses dimmer lights and has made the research on solar fuel production a reality.

Scientists say this model could be the key to creating environmentally friendly fuels. Its best feature is that it is carbon-neutral, meaning it only produces the amount of carbon needed to create the fuel.

Two flashes of light were used to create the four charges. As the first flash of light hit the molecule, a reaction generated a positive and a negative charge. Then, the second flash of light led to four charges in total.

Doctoral student Mathis Brandlin said, “This stepwise excitation makes it possible to use significantly dimmer light. As a result, we are already moving close to the intensity of sunlight.”


Overcoming Limitations Set by Laser-Based Methods

In the past, laser-based methods were used to produce artificial photosynthesis. However, the technique had two significant limitations: cost and efficiency of the catalyst. Additionally, there were concerns regarding the durability of the used materials and scaling up the entire system to a commercial level. The new experiment using sunlight easily overcomes these limitations.

A new experiment by Professor Oliver Wenger and Mathis Brandlin at the University of Basle, Switzerland, shows that developing a molecule using sunlight is now possible. While the artificial photosynthesis system is not yet fully developed, this discovery has provided a better understanding of how electron transfer occurs.