Cambridge Researchers Develop Algae-Based Biocells as Eco-Friendly Battery Alternative
At the University of Cambridge, a team of researchers has developed a 'biocell' that utilizes blue-green algae as a sustainable substitute for traditional disposable batteries. This innovative technology captures electricity from photosynthetic cyanobacteria, enabling a steady power supply without damaging the organism. According to Dr. Paolo Bombelli, it can produce electricity in the absence of light, making it an ideal choice for small devices such as smoke alarms and remote controls. Bio-designer Lucia Giron has collaborated with the team to commercialize this idea, creating an alarm clock encased in transparent algae. With over 20 years of research backing this initiative, Professor Chris Howe highlights its potential to eliminate millions of disposable batteries, yielding considerable environmental advantages.
Key facts
- Researchers at the University of Cambridge developed algae-based biocells as an alternative to disposable batteries.
- The biocells harness electricity from photosynthesis in blue-green algae (photosynthetic cyanobacteria).
- The technology generates continuous electricity 24/7 without harming the algae.
- Dr. Paolo Bombelli is the scientific lead from the University of Cambridge's Department of Biochemistry.
- Bio-designer Lucia Giron joined the team to design applications, including an alarm clock.
- The biocells can power small devices like remote controls, smoke alarms, and alarm clocks.
- The technology has over two decades of research behind it and is still in early stages.
- Potential applications include charging facilities for phones and environmental sensors in rural off-grid locations.
- Professor Chris Howe is the principal investigator of the project.
- The project was covered by Dezeen and My Modern Met.
Entities
Artists
- Lucia Giron
Institutions
- University of Cambridge
- Department of Biochemistry
- BE OPEN Foundation
- Dezeen
- My Modern Met
- University of Cambridge Department of Biochemistry
- Central Saint Martins
- e-Pho
Locations
- Cambridge
- United Kingdom
- London
Sources
- My Modern Met —
- Dezeen —