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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 28, 2026

Stretching Micropatterned Cells on a PDMS Membrane

Stretching Micropatterned Cells on a PDMS Membrane

Published on: January 22, 2014

Stretchable Textile-Based Membraneless Microfluidic Microalgae-Microbial Solar Cell.

Hui Geon Kong¹, Yeon Woo Cha¹, Sang Hyuk Lee¹

¹Department of Mechanical Engineering, BK21 FOUR ERICA-ACE Center, Hanyang University, 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 15588, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.

|May 27, 2026

Summary

Researchers developed a flexible, textile-based solar cell using algae and microbes for sustainable power. This microalgae-microbial solar cell (μmMSC) offers a low-cost, wearable energy solution.

Keywords:

co-cultured co-laminar flow fabric-based flexible photosynthetic microbial fuel cell mediator-less microalgae biocathode self-sustainable

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Published on: March 1, 2020

Area of Science:

Bioelectronics
Renewable Energy
Materials Science

Background:

Conventional microalgae-microbial solar cells (μmMSCs) often rely on rigid substrates, limiting their flexibility and scalability.
Developing sustainable and cost-effective energy generation methods is crucial for meeting global energy demands.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop a novel textile-based membraneless microfluidic microalgae-microbial solar cell (μmMSC).
To explore the potential of this flexible device for low-cost, sustainable power generation, including wearable applications.

Main Methods:

Fabrication of a flexible textile substrate with screen-printed microfluidic channels using hydrophobic Ecoflex.
Development of conductive electrodes using PEDOT:PSS, Ag2O, and carbon nanotubes (MWCNT/SWCNT).
Vertical co-culturing of Synechocystis sp., Bacillus subtilis, and Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 at the anode and Scenedesmus obliquus at the biocathode.

Main Results:

The textile-based μmMSC achieved a maximum current density of 144 μA cm⁻².
A peak power density of 17 μW cm⁻² was recorded.
The device demonstrated mechanical flexibility and simplified fabrication processes.

Conclusions:

The developed textile-based μmMSC presents a viable and sustainable platform for flexible bio-solar energy systems.
This technology holds promise for integration into wearable devices and offers advantages in scalability over traditional rigid designs.