German researchers have developed a method to produce carbon fiber from microalgae, offering a greener alternative to petroleum-based materials. Led by the Technical University of Munich, the GreenCarbon project uses algae that absorb CO2 and store energy-rich oils. These oils are then chemically converted into acrylonitrile, a key precursor in carbon fiber production.
The resulting bio-based carbon fiber is strong enough for industrial use. In fact, Airbus has already used it to build parts for a research helicopter, which successfully completed a test flight in 2024. Scientists say this breakthrough could help reduce carbon emissions in aviation and beyond. The team is now seeking funding to scale up production and explore its use in other materials.
德國研究人員開發出一種利用微藻製造碳纖維的方法，為含石油的材料提供了更環保的替代方案。這項由慕尼黑工業大學主導的GreenCarbon計畫，採用能吸收二氧化碳並儲存高能量油脂的藻類。這些油脂接著會被化學轉換成丙烯腈 — 一種碳纖維生產中的關鍵前驅物。
Photo: Ivy English I 照片：Ivy English
最終製成的生物基碳纖維的強度足以應用於工業領域。事實上，空中巴士公司已經用它製造出研究用直升機的零件，並於 2024 年成功完成試飛。科學家表示，這項突破有望減少航空業及其他產業的碳排放。研究團隊目前正尋求資金以擴大生產規模，並探索將其應用於其他材料的可能性。
Word in Use
1. revolutionize vt. 使徹底變革
The new medical technology could revolutionize cancer treatment.
這項新的醫療技術可能會徹底革新癌症治療。
2. alternative n. 替代方案
Public transportation offers an alternative to driving in the city. 大眾運輸提供了在城市中開車的替代方案。
3. chemically adv. 化學地
This fabric has been chemically dyed to achieve its vibrant color. 這種布料經過化學染色以達成其鮮豔色彩。
4. convert vt. 轉換，改變 convert A into B 將 A 轉換成 B
The factory will convert its waste materials into reusable products. 這家工廠將把廢棄材料轉換成可再利用的產品。
5. breakthrough n. 突破，重大進展
? The company recently announced a battery breakthrough that lets electric cars run longer on one charge.
Practical Phrases
1. ... and beyond ……以及其他
The technology can be applied in medicine, engineering, agriculture, and beyond. 這項技術可應用於醫學、工程、農業以及其他領域。
2. scale up. . . / scale. . . up 擴大∕增加……
The startup will scale up operations after securing new investment.
這家新創公司在獲得新投資後將擴大營運。
聽文章朗讀及講解: https://ivy.pse.is/455bfu
本文出自常春藤解析英語雜誌: www.ivy.com.tw
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