When concrete becomes battery: the living cement revolution
Thanks to a new living cement, buildings could soon store energy. © Tatjana Meininger / Shutterstock
Constructions could soon turn into real giant batteries thanks to a new “living” cement. In an article published in the journal Cell Physical Science Reportsresearchers in Denmark and China have developed a cement infused with microbes in order to transform it into supercapacitor.
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The power of electroactive bacteria
For this study, they called on Shewanella Oneidensis MR-1. This bacteria is known for a very particular phenomenon, the extracellular transfer of electrons. It is an electroactive bacteria, which has already been used to create microbial batteries. Integrated into cement, it increases the energy storage capacity of the material.
The researchers measured that a kilogram of this living cement can deliver a power of 8.3 kW, for a storage capacity of 178.7 Wh. In addition, this battery is stable. After 10,000 load/discharge cycles, it still retains 85 % of its initial capacity.
We have combined structure and function. The result is a new type of material capable of both supporting loads and storing energy, and finding its performance thanks to a nutrient intake.
However, microbes need nutrients to survive. The researchers therefore integrated a microfluidic network which allows them to be periodically nourished. If bacteria die, the drivers and biofilms networks they have created allow you to keep the load already present. But just circulate nutrients again to reactivate them. In this case, cement finds 80 % of its initial capacity.
Towards buildings that store renewable energy?
In the tests, the researchers connected in series six small blocks of 2m³, which enabled a small LED diode. And the system continues to operate, even at high temperatures or below zero.
Six small blocks of living cement of 2m³ can illuminate an LED. © Qi Luo & al.
For this first study, it is only proof of concept. But the materials are abundant and easy to produce. Bacteria are already present in nature and therefore present no risk to the environment. Researchers hope to be able to use this cement in the construction of houses and other buildings.
It is not only a laboratory experience. We plan to integrate this technology into real buildings, walls, foundations or bridges, where it could support renewable energy sources such as solar panels by ensuring local energy storage.
This cement will not compete with the batteries of electronic devices, but used in a complete building, it will offer a large storage capacity. The researchers believe that a part made with this material could store around 10 kWh, enough to supply a business server for a whole day.
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