Context
∙ Recently, scientists have developed a new fuel cell, claiming it can harvest energy from microbes (bacteria) living in the soil.
About the Soil-powered fuel cell
∙ It is a new technology that generates power with the help of microbes in the soil instead of chemicals.
∙ The microbes release electrons during the decomposition of organic matter. These electrons flow from the anode to the cathode, creating an electric circuit that generates power.
∙ It can potentially last forever as long as there is organic carbon in the soil for the microbes to break down.
Significances
∙ It potentially be used in green infrastructure and precision agriculture applications.
∙ It could offer a sustainable, renewable alternative to traditional batteries, which hold toxic, flammable chemicals that leach into the ground and contribute to the ever-growing problem of electronic waste.
