Squeeze-biobattery: On-demand power generation from lyophilized exoelectrogens using a finger-activated, self-contained media pouch

We demonstrate the first portable, on-demand micropower generation from inactive, lyophilized electricity-producing bacteria. The exoelectrogenic cells were freeze-dried for long-term storage and were readily rehydrated for on-demand power generation by using a finger-activated, self-contained media pouch. A single-sheet, paper-based microbial fuel cell (MFC) with lyophilized cells and media-containing pouch were sealed with Kapton® polyimide tapes for realizing a truly stand-alone and on-demand biobattery even in resource-constrained environments. An oxygen-tight interface, a solid-state cathode, and an engineered conductive paper reservoir significantly improved the MFC power performance, as well as revolutionized its on-site operation.