Conventional batteries used in underground sensors and agriculture can release toxic and flammable chemicals into the soil. This new battery could significantly reduce electronic waste problems.
According to Saed News, a team of researchers from Northwestern University has developed a new fuel cell that generates energy from microbes living in the soil. This battery, about the size of a standard book, offers a sustainable and renewable alternative to conventional batteries.
To test the new fuel cell, researchers used it to power sensors that measure soil moisture and detect movement—a feature that could be valuable for tracking passing animals. They also equipped the soil sensor with a small antenna that reflects existing radio frequency signals, allowing it to transmit data wirelessly to a nearby station.
Not only did the fuel cell perform well in both wet and dry conditions, but it also lasted 120% longer than similar technologies. The researchers have made all designs, tutorials, and simulation tools publicly available so that others can build upon their findings.
Bill Yen, a Northwestern University graduate who led the study, stated:
"The number of IoT (Internet of Things) devices is constantly increasing. Imagine a future where trillions of devices rely on lithium, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals. To avoid this, we need sustainable alternatives that generate clean energy without hazardous waste. Soil-based microbial fuel cells produce small amounts of energy, but it's enough to power sensors. As long as there is organic carbon in the soil for microbes to break down, this battery will keep working."
George Wells, the study’s senior author, added:
"These microbes are everywhere—in all types of soil. With simple engineered systems, we can harness their energy. While we won’t power entire cities with them, we can generate small amounts of electricity for low-power applications."
In recent years, farmers worldwide have increasingly adopted modern agricultural techniques. This technology-driven approach relies on precise measurements of soil moisture, nutrients, and pollutants to optimize crop health. However, this requires a widespread network of electronic devices to continuously collect environmental data.
Currently, sensors used in farms and natural environments rely on batteries or solar energy, but solar panels often fail in dirty environments. Batteries, on the other hand, run out of charge, creating maintenance challenges. The soil-powered battery presents a practical solution to this problem.
