Mini Power Plants from Coated Blue-Green Algae

(EMPA, August 27, 2020)

Using bio-templating technology, Empa researchers led by Laetitia Philippe recently equipped blue-green algae of the genus Spirulina with semiconductor coatings to create mini power plants, which supply biofuels and are photocatalytically active in sunlight. While a nickel coating is used to retrieve the tiny power plants, due to its magnetic properties, Philippe explained that the combination of two zinc compounds in subsequent coatings makes it possible to use a wider wavelength range of the solar spectrum as an energy source. Furthermore, as the chemical reaction oxidizes and neutralizes pollutants when exposed to light, Philippe contends that “it should be possible to develop a sustainable, simple and inexpensive process for water treatment" with the coated algae's photocatalytic activity. And what's best: The chemical reactions are circular – they form a sophisticated raw materials cycle.