The Naval Research Laboratory has developed a microbial fuel cell (MFC) capable of harvesting energy in aerobic environments such as a water column or air/water interface.
The replacement of commonly used membranes with nanoporous membranes results in an MFC capable of generating ~1μW that can be connected easily in series or parallel for additional power generation. These MFCs operate by passive nutrient diffusion and thus eliminate energy-draining pumps needed in other MFCs.
This technology is currently being developed for Navy use as a long-term, self-renewing power supply for environmental sensors. Applications include wastewater treatment, environmental sensors, persistent surveillance, bioremediation, and renewable electricity from biomass. NRL is seeking CRADA partners for continued refinement of this technology.
For further information, contact the Technology Transfer Office at the Naval Research Laboratory, techtran@utopia.nrl.navy.mil.
