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Dry Film Photoresist-based Electrochemical Microfluidic Biosensor Platform: Device Fabrication, On-chip Assay Preparation, and System Operation
Published on: September 19, 2017
A paper-based microbial fuel cell: instant battery for disposable diagnostic devices
Arwa Fraiwan1, Sayantika Mukherjee, Steven Sundermier
1Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, State University of New York-Binghamton, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA.
Biosensors & Bioelectronics
|June 29, 2013
Summary
We developed a low-cost, portable microfluidic paper-based microbial fuel cell (MFC). This device achieves a power density of 5.5 μW/cm(2) and demonstrates potential for scalable energy generation.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a sustainable energy source.
- Previous MFC designs often face challenges in cost, portability, and scalability.
- Paper-based devices present an opportunity for low-cost, disposable electrochemical systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a microfabricated paper-based microbial fuel cell (MFC).
- To evaluate the power generation capabilities and operational characteristics of the paper-based MFC.
- To explore strategies for enhancing voltage and operational lifetime.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of paper-based MFCs using microfluidic patterning of hydrophobic barriers.
- Infiltration of a sulfonated sodium polystyrene sulfonate solution to create a proton exchange membrane.
- Characterization of power density, current generation, and performance of stacked/parallel MFC configurations.
Main Results:
- Achieved a maximum power density of 5.5 μW/cm(2).
- Generated an immediate current of 74 μA upon addition of inoculum and catholyte.
- Stacking two MFCs in series increased voltage by 1.9x; parallel configuration enhanced operational lifetime.
Conclusions:
- The microfabricated paper-based MFC is a cost-effective, portable, and user-friendly energy generation device.
- Demonstrated successful integration of paper-based components for MFC functionality.
- The design shows promise for scalable and enhanced energy output through device stacking and parallelization.
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