INTERFACING PHOTOSYSTEM I WITH CONDUCTIVE THREE-DIMENSIONAL FRAMEWORKS FOR SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION

Abstract

Photosystem I complex serves not only as a model for inspiration but also as a complete entity which can be extracted and integrated directly into alternative energy technologies. When creating PSI-based solar energy conversion systems, strategies which maximize photocurrent output while minimizing cost and use of resources are crucial. This work discusses efforts of incorporating PSI protein complex into conductive three-dimensional frameworks such as conductive polymer scaffolds and porous transparent metal oxide electrodes. Improving the interfacial electron transfer pathways within PSI multilayers serves a crucial role in achieving higher performances in PSI-based solar devices. Porous electrodes allow for a large interface between electrode, electrolyte and photoactive substances while conductive polymer scaffolds offer a new route toward effective “electrical wiring” of PSI complexes.