A \u00a0nanoparticle system which stimulates the growth of microalgae \u2013 a valuable resource used in the production of biofuels and medical compounds \u2013 has been developed by a team of Australian scientists, including Flinders University clean technology expert Professor Colin Raston.<\/p>\n
The technique, developed in collaboration with researchers from the University of Western Australia, creates an optical nanofilter which enhances the formation and yield of algae photopigments, namely chlorophyll, by altering the wavelengths of light absorbed by the algae.<\/p>\n
The scientists claim that their novel technique enhances the wavelengths reaching the algae which involves \u201cbackscattering\u201d of wavelengths which the algae can use, resulting in improved growth.<\/p>\n
By putting light in the nanoparticles at a wavelength the algae can handle it matches the light the algae are using in the flask, and the algae then absorbs that light which stimulates growth.\u00a0The system uses nanoparticles placed in a separate flask on the outside of the algae flask which means the nanoparticles are not in direct contact with the algae, therefore avoiding any toxicological issues and contamination.<\/p>\n