Researchers in New York have invented a fake plant that could give off oxygen and generate electricity, helping improve indoor air quality better than a natural plant.
Professor Seokheun Choi and PhD student Maryam Rezaie, both from Binghamton University in New York, have developed an indoor artificial plant that can feed on carbon dioxide and release oxygen, much like a natural plant.
But more impressive, it does so 80% better than nature’s own.
“The artificial plants use indoor light to drive photosynthesis, achieving a 90% reduction in carbon dioxide levels — far surpassing the 10% reduction seen with natural plants,” noted a report by Binghamton University, adding that it can improve indoor air quality significantly.
As if that was not enough, the five-leaved plant can also generate about 140 microwatts of power — enough to power a smartphone and other portable electronics.
Choi and Rezaie were working on bacteria-powered biobatteries when the idea of creating their first plant came to them. They realized their invention could have more practical, everyday applications.
Each leaf of their artificial plant contains five biosolar cells which are self-sustaining. Each biosolar cell has cyanobacteria which require the same as natural plants -- light, water, and carbon dioxide -- to perform photosynthesis, turning indoor greenhouse gases into breathable oxygen and organic matter.
“These products are then used in their respiration processes, recycling CO2 and water, thereby forming a closed-loop cycle. This makes the biosolar cell a promising self-sustainable power solution,” read the study published in the journal Advanced Sustainable Systems.
The researchers believe that with a few tweaks and updates, their invention can become a part of every household, replacing air purifiers. He also intends to increase the power generated by the technology.
"We anticipate that our artificial plant can be effortlessly installed in any indoor environment in a cost-effective, maintenance-free, and eco-friendly manner. Since it is power-free and self-sustaining, no external energy sources or accessory components are required," the study authors wrote in their research.
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