Researchers from Linkoping University in Sweden have been
able to successfully create a rose which is filled with electronic circuitry.
The purpose of the study was to create a “smarter” breed of plant “which can
respond to changes in its environment and let farmers know how it’s holding
up”. The electronic circuitry would also allow the plant to boost its growth or
bloom on command. Researchers in Sweden were able to create this bionic plant
using a synthetic polymer called PEDOT-S. PEDOT-S was absorbed through the
stems of the plants like nutrients. Once absorbed by the plant’s xylem, the
PEDOT-S was assembled into conductive wire stretching up to 10 centimeters
long. The researchers were then able to create working circuits using the
plant’s own electrolytes. After the success of their first experiment,
researchers plan to work with a whole array of “electronic greens” to further
their studies. Researchers hope that these results will also be seen in edible
plants which could greatly impact the farming industry, helping farmers create
more resilient and bountiful crops.
This article was very interesting to read about. Prior to
reading this article I had never heard of “bionic plants” or plants that have
the ability to create electronic circuitry. I think that if the researchers are able to see the same results
they saw in the roses in edible plants, it will be a huge break through. If farmers had the ability to monitor their
crops through electronic circuitry they would be able to grow stronger crops at
a faster rate, thus increasing productivity and profits.
Here is another article about bionic plants.
