Researchers have developed a more efficient way to extract hydrogen
from biological materials using a bacterial fuel cell. The cell uses a
granulated graphite anode, a carbon cathode with a platinum catalyst,
and an off-the-shelf anion exchange membrane. Naturally-occurring
bacteria within the cell consume biological materials such as acetic
acid and release electrons and protons. Adding a bit more electrical
energy to the cell is enough to produce bubbles of hydrogen. The
researchers say 288 percent more energy in hydrogen is produced than
the amount of electrical energy put into the cell.
