International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 10 | OCT 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Sustainable Energy Transition: Photolysis-Driven Bioelectricity Gutturthi Sohita1, Samaanta R2, Fathima Aliyar3, Divya S4 1 Student, Department of Naval Architecture and Ship Building Engineering, Sree Narayana Gurukulam College of
Engineering, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
2 Student, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Sree Narayana Gurukulam College of
Engineering, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Naval Architecture and Ship Building Engineering, Sree Narayana Gurukulam
College of Engineering, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
4 Assistant Professor, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Sree Narayana Gurukulam
College of Engineering, Ernakulam, Kerala, India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***--------------------------------------------------------------------microwatts per plant, this research aims to optimize these Abstract - The potential of photolysis-driven bioelectricity conditions to a higher efficiency.
generation using algae and succulents, offering a novel, sustainable, and scalable approach to renewable energy production. Through bio-electrochemical systems, algae and succulents exhibit high photolysis efficiency, generating potential electricity outputs. The main objective of this study is to explore how Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) present in algae and succulents can be utilized to generate electricity. Optimized photolysis conditions and electrode materials further enhance electricity generation, providing a viable alternative to fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This study emphasizes to show the enhanced power density and stability, paving the way for further research and development of scalable bioelectricity systems. A preliminary cost analysis indicates the economic viability of bioelectricity production. Key findings highlight the potential for large-scale implementation, underscoring the significance of biophotolysis electricity generation in the pursuit of a low-carbon economy.
Under ideal conditions, the raw materials of 103 algae culture and 2,000 aloe vera plants could generate 1 W of power. To make this bio electricity viable for practical applications, amplifiers can be used to enhance the output. Although this is an ongoing study and the concept is yet to be fully validated through experimental trials, such that the main objective is to develop an efficient system that can contribute to a low-carbon economy. Algae are photosynthetic organisms capable of converting sunlight into chemical energy. With over 40,000 known algal species, selecting the optimal variety is crucial for efficient energy harvesting. Various types of algae and their potential for harnessing electricity, particularly through electrolysis are summarized in table 1.
Succulents, with their Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) produces a photosynthetic pathway which allows it to perform gas exchange and store organic acids such as malate at night that potentially generates electrons during both light and dark phases could provide a more consistent bioelectric output compared to other plants. Succulents, adapted to arid environments, store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. This water storage capacity enhances their electrochemical properties, making them ideal for bioelectrochemical energy harvesting.
Key Words: Sustainability, Electrolysis, Renewable energy, MFCs, Electricity, Amplification.
1.INTRODUCTION The global energy consumption is anticipated to increase 36% by 2030, which will cause a massive global shortage of conventional fuel in the near future. Therefore, the shift to renewable energy is imperative to mitigate the unprecedented energy crisis driven by escalating demands, depleting fossil fuels and climate change. The relevance of leveraging local resources to generate clean energy is a predominant factor for sustainable development. Algae and succulents particularly, abundant, fast growing and rich in organic matter has the potential to harness electricity. The study focuses on the electrochemical conversion of algae and succulents into electricity, utilizing their photosynthetic properties to generate power. While previous research has demonstrated that algae-based photolysis can generate power densities ranging from 10-500 microwatts/cm2 and aloe vera could produce 200-800
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Evaluating the electrochemical properties, water storage capacities, and harvesting complexities of Aloe vera, Echeveria elegans, Crassula ovata, and Kalanchoe daigremontianin etc., it is found that Aloe vera could be the most suitable species for bio-electrochemical energy harvesting due to its high electrochemical activity, robust water storage, and ease of electrolysis.
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