Researchers Develop Tiny Biological Fuel Cell

Researchers at the Carnegie Mellon University have developed a tiny biology-powered fuel cell.

Using batteries is not a viable option in remote areas like deep ocean and other geological environments. The future version of the world’s smallest biological fuel cell can be used to power sensing equipment in such remote locations. The large energy storage capacity of the tiny fuel cell could replace batteries in future.

The fuel cell created by Philip R. LeDuc and Kelvin B. Gregory produces energy by using microbial electricity generation, facilitated by microfluidic flow control. The research work was started to address the curiosity behind enhanced battery technology for sensors and small-scale electronic systems.

The newly developed fuel cell measures the size of a string of human hair. It generates power by utilizing the required bacteria to produce a biofilm, which uses natural organic elements as fuel. The cost of the biology-powered fuel cell can be less than traditional batteries and can be conveniently deployed in remote locations.