Scientists have managed to build a computer that can store energy through photosynthesis and that requires little energy to operate. Researchers from the University of Cambridge blue green algae known as a cyanobacteria colony They placed it in a metal container the size of an AA battery.

This metal container is then attached to an ARM Cortex-M0+ chip where it can photosynthesize. can produce an electric current that can supply power somehow left on a windowsill. Of course, the system is currently only in the concept phase, but the researchers hope the algae-powered chips can be used in future Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

They are less harmful to the environment compared to traditional batteries and solar energy

Scientists say the advantage of using algae over conventional batteries or solar power is that it has a smaller impact on the environment and can potentially provide continuous power.

Senior author of the study, Professor Christopher Howeon topic “The growing Internet of Things needs more and more power, and we think it should come from systems that can generate energy rather than store it, such as batteries. Our photosynthetic device doesn’t drain like a battery because it uses constant light as an energy source.” say.

According to the research, the algae-powered ARM chip 0.3 microwatt It was used to perform very simple calculations by consuming it. While the power consumption of normal computers varies depending on factors such as workload and age, it is only a small fraction of the electricity required to run an average computer. For example, if a normal desktop computer consumes 100 watts per hour, you should run it approximately. up to 333,000,000 algae batteries there is a need.

Cambridge University The published article on this topic can be found here. What do you think? Please don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments.