BIOHYBRID SOLAR CELLS THAT EXPLOIT THE Z SCHEME OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS

In this proposal, we are combining the relative advantages of wired and diffusible systems-- namely, fast electron injection from/to the electrode and a gel-based medium that is compatible with both planar and porous electrodes--to prepare portable solar cells that contain both PSI and PSII. The principal objectives for the proposed project are stated below:Examine the concentrations of active PSI and PSII from spinach that ranges from just harvested to up to a month beyond harvest time. Investigate the effect of these active concentrations on photoelectrochemical performance.Modify Photosystems I and II at their active sites with metal nanoparticles and wired conducting polymers, respectively, through photoelectrochemical processes.Design electrode interfaces to minimize charge recombination and enhance photovoltages toin vivolevels.Incorporate both PSI- and PSII-polymer conjugates in Z-scheme gel-based solar cells to elevate the cell potential and improve overall efficiencies.