Eco Factor: Tiny biological fuel cells being developed at University of Georgia.
Researchers at the University of Georgia have succeeded in developing a way to grow molecular wire brushes that conduct electricity, which could herald a new era of biological fuel cells that could power implants using glucose as fuel. The discovery according to the researchers is the first step in developing fuel cells for devices such as pacemakers, cochlear implants and other prosthetics, which until now had to be removed to change their on-board batteries.
The technology is based on the use of thiophene and benzene, which are used to grow polymer brushes that are attached to metal surfaces as ultra-thin films. Using a controlled polymerization technique, the scientists laid down a single layer of thiophene as the film’s initial coating. Apart from their use in implants, the fuel cells could also be used in electronic devices such as sensors, transistors and diodes.
Image Courtesy: NextEnergyNews
Via: ScienceDaily
