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Algae Could Be the Key To Ultra-Thin Batteries

Posted by Soulskill on from the green-power-that's-actually-green dept.

MikeChino writes "Algae is often touted as the next big thing in biofuels, but the slimy stuff could also be the key to paper-thin biodegradable batteries, according to researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden. Uppsala researcher Maria Stromme and her team has found that the smelly algae species that clumps on beaches, known as Cladophora, can also be used to make a type of cellulose that has 100 times the surface area of cellulose found in paper. That means it can hold enough conducting polymers to effectively recharge and hold electricity for long amounts of time. Eventually, the bio batteries could compete with commercial lithium-ion batteries."

4 of 54 comments (clear)

  1. BSG by Kethinov · · Score: 3, Funny

    Sweet! So that means when we find the Algae Planet, it'll solve our food AND fuel problems! Why steal Tylium from the Cylons when you've got algae?

    --
    You're right, I wouldn't steal a car. But if it were possible, I sure as hell would download one!
    1. Re:BSG by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

      ...can also be used to make a type of cellulose that has 100 times the surface area of cellulose found in paper. Not to mention the super-absorbent toilet paper we could make.

    2. Re:BSG by Firehed · · Score: 2, Funny

      Now that's an idea my behind can get behind.

      --
      How are sites slashdotted when nobody reads TFAs?
  2. no we need that planet to dial the Destiny by Joe+The+Dragon · · Score: 2, Funny

    no we need that planet to dial the Destiny