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Bacteria-powered paper battery could solve resource challenges
According to researchers, a new type of battery made of paper and fueled by bacteria may help health care workers overcome challenges in remote areas of the world where power and resources are limited or too expensive.
"Paper has unique advantages as a material for biosensors," Seokheun (Sean) Choi, PhD, director of the bioelectronics and microsystems laboratory at State University of New York at Binghamton, said in a news release. "It is inexpensive, disposable, flexible and has a high surface area. However, sophisticated sensors require a power supply. Commercial batteries are too wasteful and expensive, and they can't be integrated into paper substrates. The best solution is a paper-based bio-battery."
Choi and colleagues made the battery by printing thin layers of metals and other materials onto a paper surface, the release explained. Then, researchers placed freeze-dried exoelectrogens — bacteria that transfer electrons outside of their cells — on to the paper. The bacteria, which only survive long enough to allow for a shelf-life of 4 months, then generate electrons that pass through the cell membrane, contacting external electrodes to power the battery.
According to the release, Choi and colleagues added water or saliva to activate the battery and within a couple of minutes, the liquid revived the bacteria, creating enough electrons to power a light-emitting diode or calculator. Choi said the power performance needs to be improved for most practical applications, but the desired power can be achieved by stacking and connecting multiple batteries.
Choi presented the work at the National Meeting and Exposition of the American Chemical Society. He has applied for a patent for the battery and is seeking industry partners for commercialization.
Reference:
Choi S, et al. Abstract ANYL 59. Presented at: ACS National Meeting and Exposition; Aug. 19-23, 2018; Boston.
Disclosures: Infectious Disease News was unable to confirm relevant financial disclosures prior to publication.