Biological photovoltaic cell based on cyanobacteria was able to continuously charge a microprocessor
The authors used a widely used speciesblue-green algae to continuously power the microprocessor for a year, requiring only ambient light and water to operate. According to the authors, their renewable design reliably powers small devices.
The system is similar in size to an AA battery andcontains non-toxic algae called Synechocystis - they get energy from the sun through photosynthesis. This generates an electric current, which then interacts with the aluminum electrode - it is used to power the microprocessor.
The system is made of conventional, inexpensive andrecyclable materials. This means that it can be scaled up and used to power a large number of small devices. The researchers say their development will be very useful for autonomous gadgets or for people who live in remote areas.
Algae do not need food because theyfeed on during photosynthesis. Despite the fact that photosynthesis requires light, the device can continue to generate energy even in the dark. The researchers believe this is because the algae process some of their food when there is no light and continue to generate electricity.
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