In the Star Trek science fiction franchise, nothing on board a starship
is wasted. That includes human waste. All waste is collected and reused for
other purposes, including energy production. Now, thanks to some enterprising
researchers at the University of West England, yet another Star Trek concept
has been brought to life.
This new development comes by way of a fuel cell that can be used to
operate or charge a mobile phone. What powers the cell? Urine. Yes indeed,
researchers have found a way to take advantage of a rather plentiful waste
product and turn it into usable electricity.
The process works by collecting urine and introducing special bacteria
to it. These bacteria break down the chemical components of the urine in order
to consume them. The process creates electrons that can then be stored in what
is known as a microbial fuel cell (MFC).
Researchers recently showed off their fuel cell by using it to power a
mobile phone. Although the first version of their invention is incapable of
producing enough electricity to make it viable, they are confident that they
can reproduce the effort on a much larger scale. Researchers envision the day
when the fuel cells are installed in bathrooms to power mobile phones, electric
razors, and so on.
Even more amazing is the fact that the fuel cells can be manufactured
for about one pound apiece. If it turns out that they can be produced on a
larger scale, the cost for commercial applications would be extremely
attractive when compared to more expensive solar and wind options.
Another important point made by the researchers is the fact that
humanity will have a reliable and unending supply of urine. And unlike wind and
solar power, urine power is not unpredictable or subject to the whims of
nature. As long as humanity exists, there will be a constant and steady supply.
Funny but Important
In the days and weeks to come there will plenty of jokes being made
about the urine powered MFC. We'll laugh about the idea of using the bathroom
to make a conference call, or company management asking employees to donate
urine for a greater cause. But all jokes aside, this breakthrough may be more
revolutionary than we can imagine right now.
The concept of recycling waste products for other purposes is something
humanity has been working on for a while. And obviously, we've made great
strides in developing useful technologies. However, in a world that is now
driven by data and interconnectivity, electricity is becoming one of the most
precious commodities on the planet. Being able to use waste products to
generate electricity opens the door to untold potential.
All by itself, urine is unlikely to produce enough electricity to meet
the demands of the digital age. But combined with current technologies and
those yet to be developed, it's likely to be a major player in the decades to
come. Perhaps our kids and grandkids will have to get used to taking a cup to
the bathroom...
No comments:
Post a Comment