New Method Uses Organic Crystals for Sustainable Energy Harvesting

**Researchers at the University of Limerick have made a significant breakthrough in energy-harvesting technologies by developing a method to grow organic crystals from amino acids, the fundamental building blocks of proteins in the human body.** This discovery revolves around the concept of piezoelectricity—electricity generated by mechanical pressure—which is more commonly associated with ceramics or polymers but is also present in human biomolecules. The Actuate Lab within the UL's Department of Chemical Sciences and Bernal Institute has previously utilized predictive computer models to estimate the electricity generated by biological materials when compressed, making them viable for powering sensors in electronic and medical devices. Their latest research, published in the journal Physical Review Letters, showcases a versatile, low-cost, and low-temperature growth technique using silicon moulds that shape these organic crystals into discs or custom forms suited for various applications, from medical devices to phone microphones and car sensors. Lead author Krishna Hari highlights the eco-friendly potential of these biomolecular piezoelectrics as alternatives to current ceramics, which contain toxic lead. The project, funded by a European Research Council grant, aims to eliminate hazardous lead from consumer electronics, addressing EU regulations concerning lead usage. Associate Professor Sarah Guerin, who leads the research and was named Research Ireland’s Early Career Researcher of the Year, expresses optimism about the positive impact of this method on solid-state chemistry and sustainable piezoelectrics, potentially removing 4,000 tons of lead-based waste from electronics annually.