Imagine a stylish workstation that glows in the dark or fence posts that cast an unearthly light as you make your way home. Inspired by the inherent fluorescence of some fungi, Swiss scientists have made this a reality by creating bioluminescent wood.
Despite being magical, bioluminescence is uncommon and only happens under certain situations. Replicating the phenomenon of certain mushrooms glowing while consuming wood has been difficult. Now, researchers at Empa have managed to combine balsa wood with the ringless honey fungus (Desarmillaria tabescens) to create illuminating wood. The outcome? wood that emits a green light with a wavelength of 560 nanometers and shines for up to 10 days.
But it’s a complicated and time-consuming process. For three months, the wood and fungus are kept together in a high-moisture atmosphere. The balsa absorbs up to eight times its weight in water during this time. The wood’s luciferase enzyme, which gives fireflies their glow, is activated when exposed to air, and this is when the magic starts.
It’s interesting to note that the fungus preserves cellulose while specifically breaking down lignin, the component that gives wood its rigidity. This guarantees that even with the change, the wood will maintain its structural stability.
The researchers aim to enhance the intensity and lifespan of the glowing effect, envisioning a future where bioluminescent wood replaces conventional lighting in homes, parks, and public spaces. Such advancements could lead to significant energy savings.
While this study focused on modifying dead wood, similar efforts are exploring bioluminescent living plants for sustainable lighting solutions. This groundbreaking research, published in Advanced Science, marks a step toward blending natural materials with innovative design.
As scientists refine the technique, the dream of glowing wood lighting homes and parks may soon shift from the laboratory to reality.
