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.