New fuel cell harvests energy from microbes in soil to power sensors, communications

https://techxplore.com/news/2024-01-fuel-cell-harvests-energy-microbes.html

"paperback book size... power outlasted similar technologies 120%... farmers measure precise levels of moisture, nutrients and contaminants in soil requiring electronic devices... operate like battery with anode (carbon felt), cathode (inert conductive metal) and electrolyte... bacteria that naturally donate electrons to nearby conductors... soil and air keep it hydrated and oxygenated... generated 68X more power than needed to operate sensors, robust and waterproof... all components can be purchased at local hardware store"

Related: Amphibious sensors make new, waterproof technologies possible
https://techxplore.com/news/2024-08-amphibious-sensors-waterproof-technologies.html