Biomass research can help lower energy costs, reduce dependence on foreign oil, and decrease pollution.
Energy
Natural photosynthetic systems have developed a complex machinery for efficient conversion of sunlight to chemical energy, which to the present day has not been matched by human-made technologies. Researchers are using neutron scattering to investigate ways to develop synthetic, bio-inspired systems for the conversion of solar energy to electricity and fuel. Successes in this research could revolutionize energy use and production.
Biomass from plants offers a potentially abundant source of ethanol from the fermentation of sugars within the plant material. However, breaking down the biomass is a complex, expensive process. Neutron scattering is being used to develop a more efficient way to extract energy from this endless source.
Neutron investigation of biomolecules is helping scientists develop synthetic, bio-inspired systems for solar energy conversion, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
