Scientists at Uppsala University in Sweden have created lightweight, flexible batteries from a nuisance algae that blooms globally.
The scientists had originally studying Cladophora algae's potential as a thickening agent for pharmaceutical uses, but discovered that its unique nanostructure made it ideal for energy storage. They coated algal cellulose with a conducting polymer and achieved promising charge-time and storage capacity.
Nanotech professor and research lead Maria Strømme told the university's news service that their work opens up new possibilities for inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and lightweight energy storage systems. The interdisciplinary group published their findings in the September 9 issue of Nano Letters. Gas 2.0 editor Nick Chambers points out that when the algae batteries have been optimized, they should have similar storage capacity as lithium-ion batteries.
Hat tip to my Discovery colleague Michael Reilly for sending this news my way. Cladophora algae blooms worldwide and has been particularly problematic in the Great Lakes. With all the challenges still facing lithium-ion batteries, I'm all for tapping a widespread algae that has a tendency to slime our waterways.
Photo: This "grönslick" (algae) is helping the Swedes break records with their battery. Credit: Uppsala University.
Tags: Alternative Power Sources, Green Science, Green Tech, Nanotech, Renewable Energy
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