Saint Louis University engineers have developed a fuel cell battery that can run on flat soda, maple syrup, or any other sugar source. Enzymes in the device convert sugar into electricity with water as the byproduct. Researcher Shelley Minteer's prototype is the size of a postage stamp and powers a handheld calculator. Apparently, the materials in the device are biodegradable. From Saint Louis University Media Relations:
Using sugar for fuel is not a new concept: Sugar in the form of glucose supplies the energy needs of all living things. While nature has figured out how to harness this energy efficiently, scientists only recently have learned how to unleash the energy-dense power of sugar to produce electricity, Minteer said…
The military is interested in using the sugar battery to charge portable electronic equipment on the battlefield and in emergency situations where access to electricity is limited. These devices include remote sensors for detecting biological and chemical weapons. Devices could be instantly recharged by adding virtually any convenient sugar source, including plant sap, Minteer said.
Link (Thanks, Mike Liebhold!)
Previously on BB:
• Blood-powered fuel cell for implanted prostheses Link
• Body batteries Link
• Bacteria eats chocolate and shits electricity Link
