Energy
From microbial fuel cells to closed-loop living systems, biotech offers a spectrum of ways to power our world.
BDC PROJECTS
DigeStation
The DigeStation team designed an anaerobic digester for PLA waste that is generated at the school’s new food court. The Digested plastic is then turned into fertilizer and biogas energy.
University of Technology Sydney (2020) | Video
Quantworm Mine
Quantworm Industries is a nanotech wormery housed on former coal mining sites in South Wales. It utilizes the earthworm’s natural ability to bio-remediate contaminated soil and bio-synthesize nanoparticles called quantum dots (QDs) from heavy metals.
Central Saint Martins (2017) | Video
PseudoFreeze
Team PseudoFreeze engineered a refrigeration system used for the transportation of vaccines. It harnesses energy from the INA protein from the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae. It requires no batteries or outside power source.
Universidad de los Andes (2019) | Video | Website
Raiki
By installing triboelectric generators into trees, Raiki seeks to harness branches and leaves as “living triboelectric energy harvesters” that use wind and other means to capture electrical energy for human use.
Keio University (2019) | Video | Website
Further Resources
Beyond food versus fuel, Duncan Graham-Rowe, Nature
Duncan Graham-Rowe looks at ethical complications of devoting land and farming resources to producing biofuel. Learn more⟶
USC scientists may have unlocked kelp’s potential as a major biofuel source, Gary Polakovic, USC NEws
USC researchers have made major advancements in the efficiency of kelp growth to support increasing biofuel demand. Learn more⟶
Could Our Energy Come from Giant Seaweed Farms in the Ocean?, Annie Sneed, Scientific American
A U.S. agency is funding projects to help create a bioenergy industry based on macroalgae. Learn more⟶