Scientific research has demonstrated that it is possible to generate electricty from microbial fuel cells using anaerobic bacteria, cultured on plant juices. Bacterial energy is directly converted to electrical energy when the electrons gained from feeding reduce oxygen with the formation of water. Microbial fuel cells have so far known limited success because of their low potential output. With the selection of electrochemically active bacteria from an anaerobic sludge and transfered into new fuel cells, the bacteria was able to transfer electrons efficiently, providing a much higher electrical output of up to 4,31W/m2 of electrode surface. Research intends to further boost biofuel cells by optimizing various factors physical and chemical factors. Source: www.alphagalileo.org Further information from "New Scientist" www.newscientist.com Research work: Ghent University, E-mail: korneel.rabaey@UGent.be