Multi-junction artificial photosynthetic cell with enhanced photovoltages
US10100415B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 16, 2015 |
| Grant date | Oct 16, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P20/133
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A multi-junction artificial photosynthetic unit includes an active element with a plurality of semiconducting layers, with metal layers deposited between the semiconductor layers appropriately forming Schottky barrier junctions or ohmic junctions with a surface of an adjacent semiconductor layer. The active element is formed within a protective structure formed of porous aluminum oxide. Successive layers of the active element can be formed within the protective structure, and additional layers and junctions can be added until desired photovoltages are achieved. A photoreactor for the production of fuels and chemicals driven by solar-powered redox reactions includes a bag reactor filled with a feedstock solution. A plurality of multi-junction photosynthetic units are placed in the feedstock solution to drive the redox reactions and produce the desired fuels and chemicals.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.