Chinese researchers boost algae photosynthesis by up to 110%

In China, by using a conjugated polymer, researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences were about to increase the speed of photosynthesis in algae which could help to reignite interest in it as a biofuel feedstock. Using a synthetic light-harvesting polymer, researchers used an electrostatic process that forced up to 110% increase in growth. Higher protein and lipid production were also found in addition to oxygen and ATP levels. As palm oil becomes less viable in some markets, researchers are looking to revive potential replacement lipid-based feedstocks.