The Heat-BLED project was developed in response to the growing demand for sustainable and efficient optoelectronic materials. Conventional lighting and photothermal energy harvesting technologies rely on rare or non-renewable materials, often with inefficient energy conversion processes and significant environmental impact. This project aimed to overcome these challenges by harnessing the unique properties of fluorescent proteins (FPs) as bio-based materials for photothermal and optoelectronic applications.
The core objectives of the project were:
• Understanding the heat generation mechanism in FP-based polymers and its dependence on polymer matrices, additives, and FP structures.
• Smart utilization of photogenerated heat, either through FP-based nanothermometers or as dual-functional materials that harvest heat for energy conversion.
• Development of bio-hybrid LEDs (BioHLEDs) with improved efficiencies and photostabilities using high-power LED chips and new architectures.
Through the integration of biophosphors into optoelectronic and thermoelectric devices, the project sought to introduce new paradigms in sustainable lighting and energy harvesting, aligning with European policies such as the European Green Deal and promoting bio-based alternatives to traditional semiconductor technologies.
The project’s pathway to impact involves:
• Scientific impact – establishing fundamental knowledge about proton transfer mechanisms in biophosphors, leading to improved control over heat generation and charge transport.
• Technological advancements – demonstrating the feasibility of FP-based coatings for thermoelectric generators (FP-TEGs) and high-efficiency BioHLEDs.
• Industrial and economic relevance – providing innovative solutions for energy-efficient lighting, smart sensors, and low-power autonomous devices that could be scaled up for commercial applications.
• Societal and environmental benefits – reducing reliance on rare-earth and heavy-metal-based materials, lowering energy consumption, and offering biodegradable alternatives for sustainable electronics.
The Heat-BLED project has pioneered new approaches to sustainable optoelectronics, demonstrating the feasibility of FP-based biophosphors for photothermal energy harvesting and high-performance BioHLEDs. While challenges remain in scaling up and optimizing white BioHLEDs, the project's scientific breakthroughs set a strong foundation for future advancements. Further research, demonstration projects, and industry partnerships will be critical in ensuring the successful adoption of bio-based energy solutions in the broader optoelectronic and energy sectors.
