Swiss Researchers Develop Biodegradable Mushroom Battery

Swiss researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) have created a battery using mushrooms, specifically a microbial fuel cell, Anadolu Agency reported. This innovative battery harnesses the metabolism of two types of fungi to generate electricity.

At the anode, a yeast fungus processes sugar, releasing electrons, while a white rot fungus captures these electrons and conducts them out of the cell. Although the electricity produced is limited—sufficient to power a temperature sensor for a few days—the battery’s non-toxic and biodegradable nature is a significant advantage. Once its function is complete, the battery dissolves from the inside.

The components of the mushroom battery are produced using 3D printing, allowing for optimal nutrient access for the microorganisms. Researchers plan to enhance the battery’s power and durability and explore other fungi types for potential use as electricity sources. This development could have applications in agriculture and environmental research.