Publications by authors named "Adil Y Al-Handal"
Article Synopsis
- The study explores how nanostructures in organisms, like diatoms, can manipulate light for communication and photosynthesis.
- Diatoms, tiny microalgae with silica cell walls, have evolved unique structures to efficiently handle light, enhancing their photosynthetic capabilities.
- Using various imaging and simulation techniques, the research shows that these structures help optimize light for photosynthesis while protecting against harmful UV radiation.
Several species of diatoms, unicellular microalgae which constitute the main component of phytoplankton, are characterized by an impressive photosynthetic efficiency while presenting a noticeable tolerance versus exposure to detrimental UV radiation (UVR). In particular, the growth rate of the araphid diatom is not significantly affected by harsh treatments with UVR, even in absence of detectable, specific UV-absorbing pigments and even if it is not able to avoid high UV exposure by motility. In this work we applied a multi-disciplinary approach involving numerical computation, photonics, and biological parameters in order to investigate the possible role of the frustule, micro- and nano-patterned silica shell which encloses the cell, in the ability of to efficiently collect photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) and to simultaneously screen the protoplasm from UVR.
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- In 2020, regulations will lower the maximum allowable sulphur content in marine fuel from 3.5% to 0.5% to reduce harmful emissions.
- Some ships use seawater scrubbers to clean exhaust, but these systems release acidic washwater back into the ocean, which can contain nutrients and contaminants.
- A study found that exposing a Baltic Sea microplankton community to 10% scrubber washwater for 13 days increased key organic compounds, while lab tests with certain algae showed varied effects on photosynthesis and productivity, indicating species-specific responses to the washwater.