Study Reveals Algae's Potential As Clean, Renewable Electricity Source
Quebec-based researchers at Concordia University have developed an energy extraction system that uses algae to generate electricity. The system is based on the photosynthesis process of algae, which are placed in photosynthetic electrical microcells to extract electrons. According to the scientists, these cells can produce enough energy to power small electronic devices, such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensors.
Algae's potential for electricity generation is similar to sugarcane, which is converted into "bagasse" to fuel thermal power plants. The researchers' method has the advantage of being able to collect electrons continuously without direct sunlight exposure, unlike solar energy production systems used in photovoltaic cells.
Kirankumar Kuruvinashetti, a study coauthor, explains that the algae-based energy extraction system not only produces zero emissions but also absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. "Photosynthesis produces oxygen and electrons. Our model traps the electrons, which allows us to generate electricity. So more than being a zero-emission technology, it's a negative carbon-emission technology: it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and gives you a current. Its only byproduct is water," Kuruvinashetti said in a news release.
Currently, the concept can only be used to power low-consumption devices such as IoT sensors found in smart home automation devices, voice-controlled devices like Alexa, and health trackers. However, the study's authors believe that with further research and funding, this technology could become "a viable, affordable and clean power source in the future."
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