The authors of the new work have developed glucose fuel cells that convert chemical energy
The structure of the new fuel cell is largelythe same as the existing ones - it consists of an anode, electrolyte and cathode. The anode reacts with glucose in body fluids to form gluconic acid, a process that releases two protons and two electrons.
The electrolyte carries protons, they mix withair and turn into harmless water molecules. In parallel, the electrons are collected in a circuit, where they can then be used to power the implanted device.
Usually electrolytes in glucose fuelCells are made from polymers, but the researchers used a new material, cerium, as well as a strong, stable ceramic that conducts protons well. The electrodes were made of platinum, which reacts strongly with glucose.
Fuel cells at their peak produced about 80millivolt, which is about 43 microwatts per square centimeter. The team says this is the highest power density ever created. It is noted that it is sufficient to power implantable devices.
Read more
The monster at the center of our Galaxy: look at the photo of a black hole in the Milky Way
American satellite "saw" an unusual message from Earth
Published video from the rocket, which was launched from an experimental accelerator