Researchers at Switzerland’s materials science institute, Empa, developed a biodegradable mushroom battery using living fungi as an alternative new way to conventional toxic battery materials as global e-waste is projected to hit 75 million metric tons by 2030.
The Empa institute’s creation combines Saccharomyces yeast and Trametes fungi with natural material like beeswax to create an organic power source, contrary to traditional batteries contain toxic metals and plastics that are difficult to recycle and dangerous for the environment.
The iconic mushroom battery channels the yeast’s capacity to break down sugars to release protons at the anode, while enzymes in the white-rot fungus complete the circuit at the cathode to generate electricity – a process requiring only water and nutrients.
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Mushroom Batteries Functionality and Value
The mushroom battery grows from a special 3D-printed ink infused with cellulose, carbon, and living fungal cells. As the fungi consumes the ink’s nutrients, they become part of the battery’s power source – fully functional within weeks.
A single mushroom battery generates 300 to 600 millivolts of power (mV), powering small devices for days. Four linked mushroom batteries units power sensors for up to 65 hours. These water-activated, nutrients-fed bio batteries excel in remote, agricultural, or medical uses, making them ideal in rural areas where traditional power runs short.
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“We’ve seen other uses of fungi in innovative projects in recent years, including one tile system that resembles elephant skin,” researchers stated, highlighting how preliminary tests show the technology could offer an eco-friendly alternative to power devices where traditional energy storage methods fall short.
While still in its early stages, the mushroom battery technology points to a future when compostable, sustainable electronics are a reality. Scientists are already experimenting with different fungi to increase the power and lifespan of the battery.
In a world that is looking for cleaner and smarter alternatives, nature itself quite possibly contains the key to the energy of the future such as the mushroom battery.
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