Scientists put cement with bacteria to create a live energy device

Microbes are known to them Survival capabilities are great. Now, scientists have discovered another great feature: converting cement into an electricity storage device.

In a study published on September 9 in Physical science cell reportsResearchers at the University of Arhus in Denmark describe how they planted bacteria called SheWanella Oneidensis In cement. These special bacteria are known to transport electrons via surfaces, and the researchers wondered whether it could serve as an energy transmission in cement.

In fact, cement appeared to life, with the creation of bacteria “a network of charging holders capable of storing and releasing electrical energy”, the researchers explained in A. statement. In other words, cement can store and release electricity, a discovery that can one day enable sustainable buildings. Better, researchers found that even after the death of microbes, the material can be re -activated by feeding nutrients.

Unad Cement Complex

When microbes definitely died, a simple trick literally brought them back to life. The team merged the microfloidic network to supply bacteria with nutrients, and the same channels can be used to “awaken” the system, and restore up to 80 % of the original energy capacity, according to the study.

“We have collected the structure with the job,” said Chi Lau, the main author of the study and civil engineer at the University of Aharros.

“The result is a new type of material that can carry loads and storage of energy – which is able to restore their performance when providing them with nutrients.”

The researchers said that the resulting material produces a large load of energy – even under pressure. For example, the stress test guarantees one of the cement placement in the maximum temperature environments, which it easily carries. When the researchers connected six blocks of cement, the structure was born enough power to switch the LED lamp.

The future of the sustainable building?

Cement is relatively cheap compared to most materials, which makes it easy to expand. Bacteria are also abundant in nature, which means that technology is sustainable in essence. However, more work is needed to take what is the concept proof paper by being a material ready for the market.

“We imagine that this technology is merged into real buildings, in walls, institutions or bridges, as it can support renewable energy sources such as solar panels by providing local energy storage,” said Luo.

“Imagine a regular room designed with cement filled with bacteria: Even with a modest energy density of 5 WH/KG, the walls alone can store about 10 kilowatt hours-in it to keep the standard of the foundation for a full day.”