Abstract

Incorporation of biophotonic components in artificial devices is an emerging trend in exploring biomimetic approaches for green technologies. In this study, highly efficient, nanoscaled light antenna structures from green photosynthetic bacteria, known as chlorosomes, comprised of bacteriochlorophyll- c pigment arrays that are stable in aqueous environments are studied in an electrochemical environment for their photoelectrogenic capacity. Biohybrid electrochemical cells containing chlorosomes coupled to the native bacterial photosynthetic apparatus have a higher dark charge storage density (at least 10-fold) than electrochemical cells with decoupled chlorosomes. Nevertheless, upon light stimulation, the charge storage density, also known as charge injection capacity, for both electrochemical systems increased the charge stored near the electrode. Decoupled chlorosome-based systems showed a light-intensity dose-dependent response, reaching a maximum change of ∼300 nC/cm 2 at near sunlight intensities (∼80-100mW/cm2). Chronoamperometric studies under light stimulation conditions confirmed the photo-induced effect. Current studies are focused on optimization of the electrode/chlorosome interfacial properties across various heterogeneous interfaces. Successful implementation of harvesting photo-energy using the chlorosome or its derivatives may lead to substantial innovations in current biophotonic technologies, such as biofuel cells and retinal prosthetics.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationMaterials and Strategies for Lab-on-a-Chip - Biological Analysis, Cell-Material Interfaces and Fluidic Assembly of Nanostructures
PublisherMaterials Research Society
Pages23-28
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9781605111292, 9781605111643
DOIs
StatePublished - 2009
Event2009 MRS Spring Meeting - San Francisco, CA, United States
Duration: Apr 13 2009Apr 17 2009

Publication series

NameMaterials Research Society Symposium Proceedings
Volume1191
ISSN (Print)0272-9172

Other

Other2009 MRS Spring Meeting
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco, CA
Period4/13/094/17/09

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Materials Science
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering

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