Virus driven batteries

Teams of researchers, one from MIT, one from the University of Maryland, have used two different viruses to create the cathode and anode for a lithium ion battery. This may lead to batteries that can be pasted onto clothing, equipment or airframes. Designed to lighten the load for troops new battery technology might further increase the reach and capability of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS)

Its not the first time this year that out there battery concepts have been touted.

Researchers at Wake Forest University’s Center for Nanotechnology and Molecular Materials extracted the red dye from pokeberries to paint onto their efficient and low-cost fiber-based solar cells. The dye acted in a desirable manner. It acts as an absorber, helping the cell’s minute fibers entrap more sunlight to convert into power.

Fuel cells are grabbing headlines at AUVSI this year, perhaps in the near future airframes will be part of the power chain.