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A Possible New Source of Energy
Bacteria’s uses with energy
By JONATHAN SHAO
Bacteria have benefited humans in many ways, including medicine, cleaning up toxins and helping create food. However, it was only recently discovered that bacteria could also help produce energy as well. Derek Lovley and Kelly Nevin from the University of Massachusetts have recently discovered that microbial fuel cells powered by Geobacter metallireducens have the ability to "clean up toxic waste, generate electricity, and sport minuscule wires that could become vital components of complex microscopic machines".
Geobacter were first discovered in 1987 in the Potomac River in Washington D.C., and researchers have found numerous uses for it ever since. They are easily found in soils and sediments around the world, and much study has been made in order to discover the bacterium's uses. The peculiar thing about Geobacter is that when it breaks down energy, it produces electricity which can be used in everyday household appliances such as computers and vacuum cleaners. Although such technology to effectively make use of the energy has not been developed yet, we can hope that advancements in this field shall be made in the near future.
In addition to producing electricity, Geobacter metallireducens can also be used with nanotechnology. Geobacter can create pili 3-5 nanometers long that can act as a conductor for electrons. Because of this, scientists have theorized that Geobacter could also act as a natural battery, which could be used to convert human and animal solid waste into electricity. This species of bacteria is truly a fascinating one, as more and more uses are continuously found for it. Hopefully, Geobacter will someday be able to be used to benefit mankind through turning mere waste into electricity.