Scientists at Binghamton University are turning a sci-fi concept into reality by developing tiny batteries that disappear after use, inspired by the “Mission: Impossible” films. Led by Professor Seokheun Choi, the research team is addressing one of the most challenging aspects of biodegradable electronics: the power source. Instead of relying on toxic materials, they are exploring the use of probiotics—beneficial live microorganisms typically found in yogurt—to generate electricity.
In a recent paper published in the journal *Small*, the researchers demonstrate the potential of using engineered paper-based batteries that dissolve in acidic environments. This innovation could pave the way for safe, disposable technology for medical and environmental applications.
Professor Choi explains that the greatest challenge in creating transient electronics lies in developing a suitable battery. “Transient electronics can be utilized for biomedical and environmental applications, but they need to disintegrate in a biosafe manner,” he notes. “It’s essential to avoid toxic residues in the body. Such devices are referred to as bioresorbable electronics. However, most conventional power sources, like lithium-ion batteries, contain hazardous materials.”
Choi and his student research team drew from their previous work on biobatteries to explore a new idea. Maedeh Mohammadifar, a PhD graduate from Choi’s Bioelectronics and Microsystems Lab, initially developed a dissolvable microbial fuel cell during her time at Binghamton. “We utilized well-known electricity-producing bacteria classified as biosafety level 1, which are safe. However, we were uncertain about the implications of releasing these bacteria into the environment,” Choi said.
Current PhD student Maryam Rezaie spearheaded the latest research using a pre-made blend of 15 probiotics. “Probiotics are well-documented to be safe and biocompatible, but we were unsure about their ability to produce electricity,” Choi remarked. “Maryam conducted extensive experiments to investigate this.”
Although early results were not promising, Choi and his team persevered. They engineered an electrode surface that would be more favorable to the bacteria, using polymers and nanoparticles to enhance the electrocatalytic behavior of probiotics. The modified electrode, designed to be porous and rough, created ideal conditions for bacterial attachment and growth, thereby improving the microorganisms’ ability to generate electricity.
Additionally, coating the dissolvable paper with a low pH-sensitive polymer—active only in acidic environments, such as polluted areas or the human digestive system—boosted both the voltage output and the battery’s operational duration. While the power produced is currently modest, Choi views the experiments as a proof of concept for future developments.
“We need to conduct further research,” he said. “We used probiotic blends, but I want to investigate which individual strains possess enhanced electric genes and how their interactions can improve power generation. Moreover, in this study, we developed a single unit biobattery, but I aim to connect them in series or parallel to increase power output.”
This innovative approach marks a significant step toward creating environmentally friendly and safe energy solutions for transient electronic devices.
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