A simple method to harness DC (direct current) electrical energy generated by bacterial activity

作者：Sugimoto Yasuhiro^*; Tashima Daisuke; Asano Yoki

来源：Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 2011, 89(5): 323-326.

DOI：10.1016/j.psep.2011.06.001

• Bacterial activity
• Electron
• Electrical energy

We developed a new system for collecting electrons generated by bacterial activity to supply DC (direct current) electrical energy. This system used eight titanium sub-electrodes (surface area of each sub-electrode: 189 cm(2)) connected to one central main titanium electrode (surface area of electrode: 1571 cm(2)). The distance between each sub-electrode and the main electrode was 30 cm. In an initial experiment, we collected electrons during composting cattle excreta, which was mixed with a commercially available microbial compost activator/starter. We analysed the relationships between the composting temperature and electrical current and voltage. Electrons were effectively collected and used successfully to obtain DC electrical energy. Generation of a stable voltage of approximately 0.5V was clearly observed. This voltage was not related to compost temperature; however, the generated electrical current increased and decreased with compost temperature. The method was then used in a second experiment to collect electrons generated by bacterial activity in an agricultural field (area: 48 m(2)). Electrons in the field were effectively collected, and we measured a stable voltage of approximately 1.1 V and a stable current of approximately 0.7 mA. The system has the advantages of being simple, easily maintained, inexpensive, and applicable to large-scale agricultural fields.

• 出版日期2011-9