Scientists Create Rechargeable, Multicolored, Glow-in-the-Dark Succulents
Researchers injected phosphorescent particles into succulent leaves, enabling multicolor glow lasting up to two hours and rechargeable by sunlight, aiming for sustainable, energy-free lighting.
- On August 27, Chinese researchers led by biologist Shuting Liu published a study in Matter revealing multicolored, rechargeable glowing succulents in Guangzhou, China.
- The team injected Echeveria 'Mebina' succulent leaves with strontium aluminate nanoparticles, departing from traditional gene editing to create visible blue, red, and green afterglow colors.
- The treated plants glowed for up to two hours after brief sunlight exposure, maintained afterglow up to 25 days, and formed a green wall emitting enough light to see text and a person 10 centimeters away.
- Liu suggested that if the plants’ glow can be made stronger and last longer, and if their safety is fully confirmed, it might be possible for glowing plants to gently light up parks or other communal areas after dark.
- While researchers highlight luminescent plants' sustainable potential, experts like biochemist John Carr express skepticism about their practicality as streetlights due to limited energy emission and ongoing safety assessments.
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In nature, many organisms glow in the dark, including lightning bugs, some squid and jellyfish, using light to attract a mate or lure prey. Now, researchers have engineered glowing succulents, plants that recharge in sunlight and shine bright at night, an early step toward living, energy-free light sources. The study team, led by Shuting Liu, […]
"Scientists Create Avatar Glowing Plants": Chinese Team Injects Phosphorescent Particles Into Succulents That Shine 2 Hours After Sunlight - Sustainability Times
IN A NUTSHELL 🌟 Researchers have created bioluminescent plants that mimic the glowing flora of Avatar. 🔬 The innovation involves injecting phosphorescent particles into plant leaves, avoiding genetic modification. 🌵 Succulents are ideal due to their structure, allowing even light distribution and long-lasting glow. 💡 This sustainable lighting solution could transform urban landscapes and reduce [...]
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