Artificial leaf to generate hydrogen

Scientists have once again turned towards nature for inspiration to enhance their technologies. Now they are trying to learn the way leaves harness and utilize sun’s energy. Scientists have created an artificial leaf which they said can split the water to generate hydrogen. This is not the first time that such an attempt has been made. However, this experiment differs due the fact that it tries to mimic photosynthesis by copying the elaborate architectures of green leaves instead of modifying or mimicking the molecules directly involved in splitting hydrogen. Scientists assume this method to be more efficient in their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and it will be possible to create a miniature hydrogen factory by using this technology.

In the experiment the leaves were treated with dilute hydrochloric acid and magnesium atoms were replaced. The remaining plant material was burnt at a temperature of 500 °C and ultimately the researchers were able to retain a crystallised titanium dioxide framework plus many of the leaves’ natural structures. After using various types of samples in their research, the researchers found that leaves posses lens like cells on the surface. These cells are capable of capturing light almost from any angle. Other than this, they also found that structures like thykaloids measures just 10 nanometers. This gives additional surface area for the process of photosynthesis. As compared to the present titanium dioxide, artificial leaves showed more efficiency in absorbing the light.