Project description
Pioneering approach uses soap films and sunlight to generate sustainable fuels
Producing renewable solar fuels by artificial photosynthesis is a promising solution to tackle the energy problem. By mimicking photosynthesis, researchers can produce sustainable fuels out of sunlight, water and CO2. The EU-funded SoFiA project is developing an innovative approach that involves soap films. The concept mimics the light-sensitive part of leaves called the thylakoid membrane and uses molecular catalysts made from ruthenium and earth-abundant materials to form self-assembled catalytic surfaces at the junction between soap bubble pairs. Researchers plan to scale the technology by designing a stream of regenerative soap bubbles that can handle large volumes of gas, continuously flowing through a conduit exposed to light.
Objective
We propose a radical breakthrough by developing economically viable solar fuel production technology, exploiting the surfactant self-assembly & proton transport properties of soap films. Producing renewable solar fuel by Artificial Photosynthesis (AP) is globally recognized as a promising solution to modern energy & environmental crisis with decisive social impacts, but there are critical roadblocks in technology development. SoFiA aims to initiate & consolidate a baseline of feasibility for soap film based AP technology and its future uses by establishing the essential proofs-of principle & foundational scientific underpinnings. We propose the concept of an economic artificial photosynthetic membrane in form of soap film with photo-catalytic functional surfaces, formed at the junction between dis-symmetric soap bubble pairs. Our technology is made scalable by the design concept of a dynamic stream of regenerative soap bubbles capable of handling large volumes of gas, continuously flowing through a light exposed conduit. SoFiA bridges three mutually exclusive disciplines of surfactant science, renewable energy and fundamental science of water at nanoscale, supported by micro-systems engineering, and by actively engaging artists who are working with large soap film installations. The high risk is countered by engaging pioneering scientists and globally leading young researchers in an interdisciplinary research plan. An External Advisory Board composed of program managers from large industry and EU policy experts will guide the research deliverable towards commercial exploitation. Our long-term vision is to decisively alter Europe’s position in the world economic map as the leading green energy producer. Developed technology will be jointly exploited by European energy and detergent industries, kick-starting new ventures & production facilities. Major environmental impact is expected as SoFiA is devoted to transform the primary greenhouse gas (CO2) into fuel.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
RIA - Research and Innovation actionCoordinator
751 05 Uppsala
Sweden