Index-matched, bulk-scattering optical fibers for enhancing photosynthesis by photosynthetic microorganisms and to methods of preparing and using the same

Abstract

An index-matched, bulk scattering optical fiber for use during photosynthesis by a photosynthetic microorganism includes a hydrogel matrix and a plurality of nanoparticles dispersed in the hydrogel matrix. A weight fraction of the nanoparticles in the hydrogel matrix ranges from greater than 0 weight percent to less than or equal to about 0.36 weight percent. A method of using the optical fiber includes contacting the optical fiber and the photosynthetic microorganism. A photobioreactor for use during photosynthesis by a photosynthetic microorganism includes a housing that defines a cavity, the cavity being configured to receive a photosynthetic microorganism and the optical fiber.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.