Researchers from Tula State University, together with colleagues from Irkutsk, have made significant progress in the development of so-called "living batteries."
Electricity in these devices is generated by natural biochemical processes occurring in plants and microorganisms. These installations, known as plant-microbial fuel cells (PMFCs), are not only environmentally friendly, but can also be used to treat wastewater. Their operation is based on two electrodes: the anode provides electron movement, stimulated by the activity of plant cells and bacteria, and water is released at the cathode.
The main problem was the slow cathode reaction, which is usually accelerated with catalysts. Until now, expensive platinum has been used for this, which limited the introduction of technologies.
We replaced platinum with more affordable manganese dioxide, and this made it possible to increase the power by almost one and a half times — from 20 to 33 mW/m², and also reduce the internal resistance of the system
According to experts, such elements are especially promising for regions with warm climates and a shortage of clean water. Now the team is working on scaling the technology and preparing it for testing in real conditions.
Subscribe to the "First Technical" news in Google News to stay up to date with the latest events from the world of science and technology.
Read materials on the topic:
A test for rapid detection of fungal infection in the lungs was created in Russia
Smart yogurt: Novgorod development stimulates brain activity and protects against mental retardation
