Scientists at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) have developed a new type of battery that uses fungi to generate electricity. The battery, powered by two types of fungi, is non-toxic and biodegradable, making it a sustainable alternative to conventional batteries. The researchers combined the metabolic processes of the two fungi to create a microbial fuel cell, which harnesses the energy released by the microorganisms. The fungal battery is manufactured using 3D printing, allowing the researchers to structure the electrodes to optimize the growth of the fungi. The battery is designed to be used in applications such as temperature sensors in agriculture or environmental research. While the battery’s electricity output is currently limited, the researchers are working to improve its performance and power output. The project represents a collaboration between microbiology, materials science, and electrical engineering, and highlights the potential of fungi as a source of sustainable energy.
This biobattery requires regular maintenance.
