The University of Maryland Leads Project to Develop Marine Bacteria-Powered Fuel Cell for Ocean Sensors

The University of Maryland is spearheading a groundbreaking project known as the Persistent Oceanographic Device Power (PODPower), with the goal of creating a fuel cell that harnesses energy from marine bacteria to power ocean sensors. This innovative technology could potentially provide a consistent 10 watts of power for over a year, enabling the operation of ocean sensing devices used for various applications such as monitoring water chemistry and tracking marine mammals like whales and dolphins.

The PODPower system will be deployed in the ocean, where it will collect and concentrate ocean microbes and organic matter in a specialized fermentation chamber. Within this chamber, bacteria will break down the material, producing a more efficient form of “food” for a different type of bacteria that will colonize the fuel cell electrodes and generate electrons for direct use.

Key features of the design include a collection net inspired by fish gills, a corkscrew-like auger for feeding organic matter into the fermentation chamber, and a dual cathode system that enhances the power output of the microbial fuel cell beyond previous capabilities.

Project lead, Professor Stephanie Lansing, emphasizes the transformative potential of this bioinspired system in enhancing sensing capabilities while promoting environmental sustainability.

The first phase of the project, slated to run until Summer 2026, involves collaboration with eight other institutions and firms, including Battelle, George Washington University, Harvard University, and others. A grant of $7.8 million has been allocated for Phase 1 development and deployment, with the possibility of an additional $3.4 million for Phase 2, which aims to deploy the technology in multiple settings and achieve a power output of 100 watts.

This project represents a significant step forward in harnessing the natural energy of marine bacteria to power essential ocean monitoring devices, offering a promising solution for sustainable and efficient ocean exploration.