A simple method to harness DC (direct current) electrical energy generated by bacterial activity |
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Authors: | Yasuhiro Sugimoto Daisuke Tashima Yoki Asano |
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Institution: | aDepartment of Regional Agricultural Systems, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, 1-1 Gakuenkibanadai-Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan;bInterdisciplinary Research Organization, University of Miyazaki, 1-1 Gakuenkibanadai-Nishi, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan;cDepartment of Technology, Faculty of Education, Kagoshima University, 1-20-6 Kohrimoto, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan |
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Abstract: | 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 cm2) connected to one central main titanium electrode (surface area of electrode: 1571 cm2). 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 0.5 V 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 m2). 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. |
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Keywords: | Bacterial activity Electron Electrical energy |
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