BIOLOGICAL SOLAR CELLS:
Biological solar cells have been of particular research interest, due to the integration of metabolism and its implications in energy production. This system amalgamates a single species of live microbial organisms, such as anaerobic bacteria. However, biological materials such as Eukaryotic organisms (plantae) can be exploited through their photosynthetic and respiratory properties. Most importantly, the metabolic pathways can be manipulated by exploiting extraneously discharged electrons and protons in the media. As an alternative energy source, Microbial Fuel Cells advantages the sectors of energy and environmental sustainability by catalyzing naturally produced energy in growable living conditions (e.g. bioreactor and photobioreactor). Traditionally, the system houses three divisions/containments- An isolated Anode chamber, an isolated cathode chamber, and a semipermeable proton exchange membrane. In addition, the two electrodes (anode and cathode) are interconnected with conductive wires to form a fully attached simple circuit. The circuitry system is then completed by the particle transfer of the proton exchange membrane (PEM). Combining these three components forms a bioelectrochemical system. As bacteria is submerged into the anode chamber, freely electrons penetrate through the wall of the semipermeable membrane into the cathode containment, outputting electrical current. The proton exchange membrane constantly transports hydrogen ions to harness electricity. However, due to the vulnerability of these biological sources (regular pond bacteria) it is prone to contamination. Therefore, achieving a much more stable and adaptable microorganism is necessary. In addition, the metabolic processes of natural bacteria (mostly found in pond ecosystems) have varying metabolic processes. Thus, seeking a microorganism with great photosynthetic processes and cell respiration is necessary.