Scientists are testing bacterial batteries on a piece of paper for the first time

New technology gets its energy from bacteria
American researchers have succeeded in developing a battery on a single sheet of paper that is driven solely by bacteria. For example, this battery could power the disposable electronics of diagnostic sensors.

The scientists at Binghamton University in the United States succeeded in producing a battery powered solely by bacteria. The experts published the results of their research in the journal "Advanced Materials Technologies".

Researchers have developed a new type of battery that uses energy from bacteria on a leaf. With this new development, for example, the disposable electronics could be operated by diagnostic sensors. (Image: Alexander Potapov / fotolia.com)

Bio-battery as energy source
The new process reduces manufacturing time and manufacturing costs. The design could revolutionize the use of bio-batteries as an energy source in high-risk and resource-poor regions, the researchers explain.

So-called Papertronics can operate diagnostic sensors
"Papertronics has recently emerged as a simple and cost-effective way to operate the disposable electronics of diagnostic sensors," said author Professor Seokheun Choi of Binghamton University. Such devices are essential for effective and life-saving treatments in a limited resource setting.

Structure of the bacteria battery
On one half of a chromatography paper, the scientists placed a ribbon of silver nitrate under a thin layer of wax. So they created a cathode. Then they created a reservoir of conductive polymer on the other half of the paper. This then acted as an anode. The paper was properly folded and added a few drops of liquid filled with bacteria, these microbes then supplied the battery with energy. The device requires several layers to cover components such as the anode, cathode, and PEM (proton exchange membrane), explains Professor Choi.

Difficulties of the final battery
The final battery requires manual assembly, and there are potential problems such as misalignment of the paper layers and a vertical discontinuity between the layers, which can ultimately reduce power generation, say the scientists.

How much electricity does such a battery produce??
Different folding and stacking methods can significantly improve the power and current outputs. The researchers were able to produce 31.51 microwatts at 125.53 microamps with six batteries in three parallel series and 44.85 microwatts at 105.89 microamps in a 6x6 configuration.

Use of the battery makes sense in catastrophe situation
It would take millions of so-called paper batteries to power a standard 40-watt light bulb. But under certain conditions, such as a catastrophic situation, usability and portability are the top priority, the researchers emphasize.

Possible uses of the bio-battery
The battery generates enough energy to operate biosensors. These can, for example, monitor the glucose level in diabetic patients, detect pathogens in the body or perform other life-saving functions, the researchers explain.

Future of electrical energy from microorganisms
Microorganisms can utilize electrical energy from any type of biodegradable source, such as wastewater. Such a kind of paper bio-battery could eventually become an energy source for so-called papertronics, says Professor Choi. (As)