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Achieves the world's highest power output for passive-type bio batteries
Sony Develops “Bio Battery” that Generates Electricity from Sugar
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When a glucose solution is poured into the white cubes, the Walkman begins to play.
When an isotonic drink is poured in, a propeller starts to spin.
In the summer of 2007, the Sony-developed bio battery was announced in newspapers, magazines, and TV reports, and evoked a strong response. Carbohydrates (glucose) are broken down to release energy and generate electricity.
This bio battery, which is based on mechanisms used in living organism, is not only friendly to the environment but also has great potential for use as an energy source. |
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This prototype bio battery has achieved
the world’s highest power output of 50
mW*2 when employed for a passive
type*1 system.
These research results were published
at the 234th American Chemical Society
National Meeting & Exposition in August
2007 and earned respect from an academic
point of view. |
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Walkman playback using electrical energy extracted from glucose.
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Bio battery specifications (1 unit) |
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Dimensions: 39 × 39× 39 mm
Battery compartment fluid capacity: Approx. 40 cc
(effective volume excluding the case)
Maximum power output: Approx. 50 mW |
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Sony successfully demonstrated bio battery
powered music playback with a memory
type Walkman and passive speakers
(which operate on power supplied by the
Walkman) by connecting four bio battery
units in series. The case of this bio battery,
which is made from an organic plastic
(polylactate), is designed to be reminiscent
of a living cell.
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*1 Passive type
A system in which the reactive substances, such as
glucose and oxygen, are supplied to the electrodes
by a process of natural diffusion. In contrast, systems
in which the reactive substances are supplied by force
(for example, using a pump) are referred to as
"active type" systems. In general, passive type systems
have a simpler structure and are more suitable
for miniaturization. While active type systems are larger
and more complex, they are more suitable for higher
power applications.
*2 50 mW: According to Sony's research, this is the world's
highest power output as of August 23, 2007.
* Walkman is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
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| Since 2001, the Kano Laboratory (previously: Ikeda Laboratory) Graduate School of
Agriculture, Kyoto University, Biofunction Science Course has collaborated with Sony in
this area. The results presented here were achieved with technologies developed independently
by Sony based on this leading-edge knowledge. |
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Driving a propeller with an isotonic drink
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 We can create environmentally friendly energy by imitating the energy conversion system in living organisms |
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See all articles with
figures and tables. 
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Vol.51 |
