Researches at Harvard University has created a new fuel solution, known as the “artificial leaf.” A new artificial photosynthesis system was created that can make fuel. It is a bionic leaf that can turn sunlight into liquid fuel, also known as the “artificial leaf.” This artificial leaf uses nothing more than solar power, air, water and bacteria. The power of the sun and helpful bacteria are put together to create fuel, which is easy to operate and make your own fuel from home. The reason it can be used at home, is the artificial leaf is “looks basically like a jar with wires coming out of it.” According to the article, “the system uses a catalyst, cobalt phosphate, which can split water into hydrogen and oxygen when it's in sunlight,” thus creating the fuel and power needed to fuel future vehicles. But in order for this system to work, electric cars has to be a successful thing of the future. The article states that "Our infrastructure is built around fossil-based fuels, we have a centralized distribution system, and hydrogen is not compatible with the current infrastructure." Meaning this product isn’t fitting with the current infrastructure. If researches continue with this project, it can help fuel cars without producing large amounts carbon dioxide, making it a healthier and renewable project. This could help lead society into a new era, where we switch over to a renewable and easy- going source. For further interest, watch the YouTube link attached. Reference: Peters, A. 2016. An Artificial Leaf Might One Day Be How We Make Fuel For Our Cars. Viewed on 14 June 2016, from: http://www.fastcoexist.com/3060775/an-artificial-leaf-might-one-day-be-how-we-make-fuel-for-our-cars.
