Scientists have created a bacteria-powered battery.
Here's how the device works:
The process of bacterial food consumption involves gathering and excreting electrons from and to the environment. To turn these electrons into power sources, scientists have to collect them from microbial fuels cells. However, with Seokheun "Sean" Choi's discovery, this complex procedure becomes easier with paper.
Thr assistant professor from the State University of New York made a paper-based battery that gets power from bacteria. According to him, his invention, which can make small biosensors run, is not just environmentally friendly but also affordable.
Choi added that his battery could create energy anywhere and anytime because it is made of microbes. He said, "theoretically, the microorganisms are everywhere. I thought that the bacteria-based battery could be activated even in the most resource-limited settings." This is a big help for people who need energy supplies in destitute and disaster areas.
This bacteria-powered battery is composed of two parts that are also present in regular batts: the anode or the negative end and the positive opposite pole, cathode. Choi explained that electrons coming from the negative pole would flow to the other pole to produce a current. In the case of this power source, the anode has a tiny amount of water with the bacteria placed in a conductive polymer while the cathode is made of a silver nitrate ribbon positioned under a thin wax.
Once the paper is folded, both poles will be in contact and would create current. In fact, folding the paper in different patterns will change the output of the electricity.
Choi noted that his work currently utilizes wastewater but other liquids like sweat, saliva, urine and blood may be used in creating a paper battery.
This bacteria-powered battery is not Choi's first paper-device. "This one is much more upgraded. You don't need to use many paper layers. All components will be integrated into one sheet of paper," he described.