Michigan Tech Turns Ocean Microbes Into Power for Underwater Sensors

A research brewing at Michigan Technological University could one day make underwater battery replacement far less necessary, as scientists develop a system that generates power by harvesting organic matter from the ocean itself.

Led by biological sciences professor Amy Marcarelli, the BioLogical Undersea Energy (BLUE) program is exploring ways to extend the endurance of submerged sensor systems using energy drawn directly from seawater.

At the center of the effort is a microbial fuel cell (MFC) designed to capture electricity naturally produced by microbes as they consume nutrients in the water.

Read the full story on NextGen Defense: Michigan Tech Turns Ocean Microbes Into Power for Underwater Sensors