Indonesia boosts biophotovoltaic technology using purple bacteria

Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing renewable energy technology based on bio-photovoltaic solar cells that utilise photosynthetic pigments from purple bacteria (Rhodobacter sphaeroides). The project is being led by researchers at BRIN’s Research Centre for Nanotechnology Systems, as reported by ANTARA.

According to researchers, the study focuses on using the reaction centre-light-harvesting 1 (RC-LH1) protein complex from purple bacteria as a light-absorbing layer in solar cells. The biological material is combined with semiconductor layers to create charge separation when exposed to sunlight, enabling the conversion of solar energy into electricity.

The research team has developed a layered electrode structure that includes indium tin oxide, zinc oxide, and fullerene as the cathode, while molybdenum oxide and silver are used in the anode. This configuration is designed to improve the collection of electrical charges generated by the bio-photovoltaic device.

Scientists noted that purple bacteria are non-pathogenic and possess highly efficient photosynthetic capabilities, making them a promising material for next-generation solar technologies. They explained that photosynthesis and photovoltaics share a common principle: both harness solar energy, although one converts it into chemical energy and the other into electrical energy.

The technology belongs to the category of third-generation solar cells, which are considered more sustainable because they rely on environmentally friendly materials, can be processed at relatively low temperatures, and utilise abundant natural resources. Researchers also reported that the prototype achieved a notably high open-circuit voltage for a solid-state bio-photovoltaic system, representing a significant result in the field.

The project aims to develop innovative solar-cell designs that can contribute to the global transition toward clean and sustainable energy.