Inspired by the self-destructing devices depicted in the Mission: Impossible films, researchers are advancing transient electronics designed to safely dissolve after use. A central challenge in developing these biodegradable systems has been the power source, as conventional batteries such as lithium-ion contain toxic materials unsuitable for biomedical or environmental applications. For bioresorbable electronics to function safely inside the body or in nature, they must leave no harmful residues.
The team has focused on creating dissolvable biobatteries using probiotics — live microorganisms widely recognized as safe for human and environmental exposure. Building on earlier work with microbial fuel cells that relied on electricity-producing bacteria, the scientists explored whether common probiotic strains could generate power. Initial results were limited, prompting the development of a porous, nanoparticle-enhanced electrode surface to improve bacterial attachment and electrocatalytic performance.
A low pH-sensitive polymer coating was also applied to the paper-based battery, enabling it to activate in acidic environments such as the digestive system or polluted areas. Although the device currently produces only small amounts of electricity, the findings demonstrate the feasibility of probiotic-powered, dissolvable batteries. Future work will examine individual probiotic strains and battery configurations connected in series or parallel to enhance overall power output. (Image credit: Binghamton University)
For more information, visit here .
