TLDR
Scientists from Northwestern University have developed a new fuel cell technology that can generate endless power from dirt, using microbes in the soil. This new type of fuel cell could potentially replace batteries and provide sustainable energy for sensors and remote devices. The research team found that the dirt-powered fuel cells outlast traditional technology by 120% and could offer a sustainable alternative to lithium batteries, which can be harmful to the environment.
Scientists at Northwestern University have developed a new type of fuel cell that harnesses electricity from microbes in the soil.
This new technology could potentially provide endless power and replace traditional batteries.
The researchers found that the dirt-powered fuel cells could power sensors in farming and remote devices in the Internet of Things (IoT).
Bill Yen, a Northwestern alumnus, led the research and found that the fuel cell technology could outlast traditional technology by 120%.