Overview

• Northwestern University researchers have developed a fuel cell powered by microbes in dirt, offering a sustainable energy alternative to traditional batteries.
• The soil-powered technology is ideal for powering underground sensors in precision agriculture and green infrastructure.
• The fuel cell's performance exceeded similar technologies by 120 percent, proving effective in both wet and dry soil conditions.
• The team has made all their designs, tutorials, and simulation tools publicly available, encouraging further innovation and application in the field.
• The researchers plan to develop a fully biodegradable version of their soil-based microbial fuel cell, moving away from conflict minerals and complicated supply chains.