University of Cincinnati Professors David Wendell's and Carlo Monteemagno's “manufactured system of photosynthesis“ means that all captured energy is converted to sugars, unlike natural plant photosynthesis where a large amount of energy is used to maintain the life of the organism.

The foam is a far more efficient of carbon capture and versatile energy production platform, such as bioenergy, presenting new opportunities for developments in the field of renewable energy.

Professor Wendall explains: “Plants typically convert solar energy into sugars at a rate of 1-5% but the foam does this at a minimum rate of 16% - and even more in some circumstances.”

Numerous benefits

• With high conversion rates the artificial foam results in greater carbon capture, reducing the amount of CO₂ emissions in the atmosphere;
• In addition, the process of photosynthesis does not rely on the earth’s resources ie: soil and water, reducing the strain on the environment even further;
• Because of higher conversion rates, the bioenergy foam is able to keep working in more carbon-intense environments such as urban environments or polluted manufacturing locations;
• In natural plant systems too much CO₂ results in overload and photosynthesis ceases; and
• Once converted, dimethylfuran – high octane biofuel – can be created which can contribute to a commercially-successful economy and transport network without damaging the environment.

Artificial Synthetic Foam is one of 6 finalists in the The Earth Awards 2010.

Backed by world business leaders including Richard Branson, Terence Conran and Diane von Furstenberg it is a global award to give innovators the means to enter the worldwide consumer marketplace with products that drive positive action.