Biology and technology for photochemical fuel production.
Sunlight is the ultimate energy source for the vast majority of life on Earth, and organisms have evolved elegant machinery for energy capture and utilization. Solar energy, whether converted to wind, rain, biomass or fossil fuels, is also the primary energy source for human-engineered energy transduction systems. This tutorial review draws parallels between biological and technological energy systems. Aspects of biology that might be advantageously incorporated into emerging technologies are highlighted, as well as ways in which technology might improve upon the principles found in biological systems. Emphasis is placed upon artificial photosynthesis, as well as the use of protonmotive force in biology.
Hambourger
Michael
M
Center for Bioenergy and Photosynthesis, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-1604, USA.
Moore
Gary F
GF
Kramer
David M
DM
Gust
Devens
D
Moore
Ana L
AL
Moore
Thomas A
TA
D001709:Biotechnology / Q000639:trends; D004736:Energy-Generating Resources; D055668:Photochemical Processes; D010788:Photosynthesis; D018892:Proton-Motive Force; D012993:Solar Energy