willow
11-06-2003, 08:55 PM
Bacteria-powered fuel cells
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts have discovered a new bacterium (Rhodoferax ferrireducens) that will eat practically anything and turn it into electricity. The bacterium breaks down sugars by stripping them of electrons, which can then be picked up by an electrode in a fuel cell and generate an electric current. The bacterium is 83% efficient in stripping electrons off sugars and converting them to carbon dioxide and water. It is particularly effective in dealing with xylose, a waste product generated in the manufacture of paper and plans are underway to see if it can be used to clean up paper mill effluents.
New Scientist, September 13, 2003, p. 19
http://www.yourhealthbase.com/thisweek.html
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts have discovered a new bacterium (Rhodoferax ferrireducens) that will eat practically anything and turn it into electricity. The bacterium breaks down sugars by stripping them of electrons, which can then be picked up by an electrode in a fuel cell and generate an electric current. The bacterium is 83% efficient in stripping electrons off sugars and converting them to carbon dioxide and water. It is particularly effective in dealing with xylose, a waste product generated in the manufacture of paper and plans are underway to see if it can be used to clean up paper mill effluents.
New Scientist, September 13, 2003, p. 19
http://www.yourhealthbase.com/thisweek.html