08/20/2013
Self-Healing solar cell inspired by leaves
Taking inspiration from nature, I suggest developing a self-healing solar cell that will repair itself with its synthetic vascular system.
The self-regenerating solar cell will be designed with a network of channels that will mimic the vascular system of leaves, and will be composed of a water-based gel core, electrodes and light-sensitive, organic dye molecules. The dye molecules will produce electricity when they are "excited" by the sun's rays, but they will eventually degrade and become less efficient. To return the cell to full functioning, I suggest pumping fresh dye into the channels while cycling the exhausted dye out of the cell.
Discussion
Related Ideas