The world's first ever chlorophyll organic battery generates power merely through contact with water, paving the way for a more energy-efficient future.
A Taiwan scientist has invented a battery that generates electricity using chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants.
Inventor Chungpin Hovering Liao, a professor at the Graduate School of Electro-Optic and Material Science of National Formosa University in Yunlin County, said that electricity is generated by wetting the battery with water.
Impure sources of moisture such as drinks and even urine will suffice, Professor Liao said. The battery can continue to generate power for two days to a week.
Production costs for this new power source are incredibly low. Each battery costs NT$1 - NT$2 (US$.03 - US$.06) to produce, Liao said.
He also noted that the battery does not contain harmful chemicals and can even be thrown away wantonly without any risk to the environment.
The only downside reported was the relative weakness of the battery, which provides only half the power of a regular one.
Professor Liao told
Taiwan News that he plans to apply for patents in various countries such as the US and Taiwan, and expects mass production to begin shortly.
If found to be commercially viable, Liao's invention could spearhead the growing eco-friendly environment by introducing a low-cost alternative energy source.
