Preliminary biochemical fuel cell investigations

The action of Desulfovibrio bacteria has been observed in a prototype biochemical fuel cell The catabolic action of this microorganism m a properly balanced system, i.e., containing proper electrolyte-nutrient and bio-fuel combination, shows promise of yielding a practical, low-power biochemical fuel cell generator. Best results to date have been obtained with fresh mushroom as the bio-fuel where power levels of 1540 µW per square inch have been achieved. Further experimentation planned in this laboratory will be directed at improving the power constancy at the higher current-voltage drainage rates. Concurrently with these advanced studies we will attempt to learn if more rapid catabolic action can be realized at the electrode surface (anode), correspondingly producing higher electrical currents.