The University of Basel in Switzerland has taken impressive strides towards the goal of artificial photosynthesis, with a research team developing a breakthrough process. Yet they managed to create a new molecule that could store four charges simultaneously. This groundbreaking molecule, designed using the same basic principles that govern natural plant photosynthesis, is a critical step towards sustainable energy solutions.
The resulting molecule’s unusual structure allows it to hold two positive and two negative charges when energized by light. This process is modeled after the way plants effortlessly and efficiently convert energy. In an interview, Oliver Wenger, the lead researcher on this initiative, stressed the importance of this change. It’s essential to successfully address the energy challenges that lie ahead. The results have been released in the journal Nature Chemistry.
Structure and Functionality of the Molecule
That new molecule has five different units linked together in a chain. Each part is very, very important – they’re individually designated each in charge of a particular function. Two layers are built to absorb electrons, creating positive ions in the vicinity. Meanwhile, on the other end of the molecule, two other sections pull together to collect these freed electrons. This triggers an imbalance of positive and negative charges.
The two arrangements mean that the molecule can work appropriately when hit by light. It takes two separate flashes of light to produce its four charges. During the first flash, a photochemical reaction is initiated that generates one positive and one negative charge. A second flash elicits the same blank stare. Overall this results in two positive and two negative charges being stored within the molecule.
Implications for Artificial Photosynthesis
The implications of this research are profound. By spatially separating these four charges, the molecule closely mimics the processes that occur during natural photosynthesis. This mimicry presents exciting opportunities for capturing solar energy in more effective ways. The research team hopes that this major advancement will help lay the groundwork for future sustainable energy technologies.
Wenger emphasized that pursuing artificial photosynthesis would be a huge step toward long-term sustainability of our energy supply. Harnessing and manipulating electrical charges has proven to be a powerful accelerant for energy conversion and storage systems. These distributed energy systems are essential to advancing renewable energy solutions.
Future Directions and Research Impact
The University of Basel team is working on research that will help them find new ways to produce energy sustainably. Their work directly leads to a greater momentum within the field. These discoveries move the needle scientifically and lay a remarkable groundwork for advancing energy technology. This exciting molecule’s potential goes far beyond storage. It may result in new ways to harvest and utilize energy that will make us competitive while allowing us to fulfill global ambitions on sustainability.
Publishing their results in Nature Chemistry is just the latest accomplishment in a long, complex research journey for these USC scientists. Published with DOI reference 10.1038/s41557-025-01912-x, those with an interest can find a wealth of information about their methodologies and findings.