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Chinese researchers have created artificial leaves, which independently returns to the sun, which allows for significantly increasing the efficiency of energy production and splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen.
The new device combines flexible electrodes з carbon nanotubes and temperature-sensitive polymer. When exposed to light, the nanotubes heat up, causing sheet bending towards a light source that mimics the natural behavior of plants, such as Micranthemum glomeratumThis provides continuous orientation to the sun without mechanical systems.
Experiments have shown that when light incidence angles of 45° and 90° the efficiency of water splitting increases by 47% and 866% respectively compared to stationary devices. The artificial leaf demonstrates stability in the aquatic environment, which opens up prospects for use even underwater.
Despite its success, the technology still needs improvement. The main challenges are: decrease in nanotube productivity after repeated use and exposure wind and water currentsHowever, this development proves that imitation of natural processes can overcome the limitations of traditional solar panels.
If the technology can be scaled up and made reliable, it could revolutionize solar energy and fuel production, providing autonomous and efficient energy supply without complex mechanical sun tracking systems.
