Eco Factor: High-performance batteries made from algae.
Of all the materials that have been used to make batteries, algae seems the most uncommon, but scientists over at Uppsala University in Sweden have created a lightweight, flexible battery from algae that blooms globally.
Studying Caldophora algae’s potential use as a thickening agent for pharmaceutical uses, they accidentally discovered that the unique nanostructure made it ideal for energy storage. They coated algae cellulose with a conducting polymer to achieve a decent charge time and storage capacity.
The researchers believe that the work can revolutionize energy storage with inexpensive and environmentally friendly batteries.
Via: Discovery
