3D-Printed Fungal Battery Powered by Sugar Metabolism

Swiss researchers have developed a functional living battery powered by the interaction of two types of fungi, encapsulated in a biodegradable and non-toxic 3D-printed package. The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA), based in Dübendorf, developed this concept through innovative work, building on its renowned contributions to diverse technological fields such as Omega watches and artificial turf.

Researchers have combined two types of fungi for the first time to create a functional fuel cell, despite previous explorations of bacteria-powered batteries. Unlike conventional batteries, this system uses fungal metabolism to convert microbial nutrients into energy.

How do fungal batteries work?

The system features an anode based on yeast fungi, whose metabolism releases electrons, and a cathode colonized by white rot fungi, which produce an enzyme capable of capturing and conducting these electrons out of the cell.

Over three years of research, the team developed a method to manufacture the cell’s components using 3D printing. They created a cellulose-based printing ink that not only conducts electricity but also preserves fungal cells and provides a nutrient-rich medium of simple sugars for the fungi. Additionally, this ink is biodegradable and helps decompose the battery after use.

Advantages and limitations

Dr. Gustav Nyström, the lead researcher, emphasized that 3D printing enables the creation of batteries in various shapes and sizes, adjusting the amount of fungal material to meet specific energy requirements. However, these cells do not replace conventional batteries, such as those used in smartphones, as they produce only 300 to 600 mV over several days and deliver a current of 3 to 20 μA for external loads between 10 and 100 kΩ.

On the other hand, these batteries are ideal for outdoor devices, such as sensors that monitor temperature, light, and humidity in agricultural and environmental research. Furthermore, they can be stored in a dry state and activated by adding water and nutrients, as explained by researcher Dr. Carolina Reyes.

The future of fungal batteries

While there is no commercialization timeline yet, the EMPA team is working to increase the power and durability of the cells, as well as exploring other types of fungi that could generate more energy.

If the idea of using nature to power electronics intrigues you, other innovations are also worth exploring, such as a recyclable battery made from zinc and crab shells or an edible rechargeable battery made from seaweed.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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