Frontiers in Business, Economics and Management

ISSN: 2766-824X | Vol. 12, No. 2, 2023

Innovative Application of Biomass Material Energy

Battery
Zixuan Deng1, *
1 North District, China Trade Square, Chang'an Middle Road, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
* Corresponding author: Zixuan Deng (Email: [email protected])

Abstract: This article provides an overview of the innovative research progress in the application of biomass materials in
energy batteries. Biomass, as a plentiful renewable resource, has shown significant potential in various aspects of batteries,
including electrodes, electrolytes, and packaging. Currently, various biomass electrode and electrolyte materials have made
important advancements, leading to the development of various types of battery prototypes. Biomass batteries exhibit high
specific capacity, good cycling stability, and cost-effectiveness advantages. However, widespread application still faces technical
challenges such as cycle life. In the future, there is a need to strengthen basic research and technological breakthroughs, develop
efficient manufacturing techniques, establish sustainable production systems, and promote the industrialization of biomass
batteries. Biomass batteries have a promising future and will become an important choice for renewable energy storage.
Keywords: Biomass materials, Energy batteries, Electrode materials.

for their application in renewable energy storage.

1. Introduction The working principle of a biomass fuel cell can be
Biomass materials in energy batteries represent an exciting illustrated using a typical reaction with glucose as the
field that combines renewable biomass materials with battery substrate, where oxygen serves as the electron acceptor. After
technology to achieve the electrochemical conversion and the reaction is complete, glucose is entirely oxidized.
storage of energy. Biomass material energy batteries are an Anode Reaction:
emerging and efficient way to harness biomass energy by
utilizing bacteria to break down biomass and generate C6H12O6+6H2O→6CO2+24H++24e- (1)
bioelectricity. They offer advantages such as pollution-free
operation, high energy conversion efficiency, and a wide Cathode Reaction:
range of applications. This article explores the innovative
applications of biomass materials in energy batteries, delving 6O2 + 24 H+ + 24 e-→12 H2O (2)
into their fundamental concepts, research advancements, and
future development trends. Through in-depth research and Overall Reaction:
innovation, biomass material energy batteries are poised to
become a crucial component of the renewable energy sector, C6H12O6 + 6 O2→6 CO2 + 6 H2O (3)
providing more sustainable and efficient solutions for the
future of renewable energy.

2. Biomass Battery Research

2.1. Basic Principles of Biomass Material
Energy Cells
The working principle of biomass material energy cells is
mainly based on three aspects: electrode reactions, electrolyte
conduction, and electrochemical reactions. As an electrode
material, biomass undergoes oxidation-reduction reactions
during the charge and discharge processes of the battery,
enabling the storage and release of charges. As an electrolyte,
biomass provides an ion-conductive environment inside the
battery, allowing ions to migrate while blocking the electron
pathway. The electrochemical potential difference formed
between the two electrodes drives electrons from the negative
electrode to the positive electrode. Ion movement in the Figure 1. Schematic Representation of the Working Principle of
electrolyte compensates for the charge, thereby achieving the Microbial Fuel Cells
conversion and output of electrical energy. By selecting
suitable biomass materials for the electrodes and electrolyte, 2.2. Early Examples of Biomass Material Fuel
a battery system with a wide working voltage range and high Cells Research
specific capacity can be obtained (as shown in Figure 1). This Early research on biomass material fuel cells primarily
working principle of biomass batteries provides the potential

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focused on microbial fuel cells. Kim et al. [1] investigated the Table 1. Classification of Biomass Fuel Cell Structures
electrochemical activity of several bacteria using cyclic
voltammetry and assembled microbial fuel cells with these Type Structure Characteristics References
bacteria as catalysts. It is known that bacteria from the
Geobacteraceae family can transfer electrons to solid electron
The cathode chamber
acceptors like Fe(III) oxides while maintaining their growth. and the anode
When electrodes are placed in such anaerobic environments, chamber are placed
a continuous electric current is generated [2]. A team from the H-Shaped horizontally, 8
University of Massachusetts [3] discovered a microorganism separated by an ion
capable of efficiently converting sugars into electricity. Booki exchange membrane
Min et al. [4] invented planar batteries, which gained in between.
popularity among scientists for their novel battery structure. The cathode chamber
Derek R. Lovley et al. [5] replaced graphite rods with graphite is located at the upper
felt and graphite foam as the anode of the battery, resulting in end of the membrane,
increased energy output. Park et al. [6] cultivated and while the anode
enriched microorganisms with electrochemical activity using chamber is at the
microbial fuel cells. These early studies laid the foundation Two- lower end. The
Upflow 9
Chamber bottom of the anode
for biomass microbial fuel cells and inspired further
Type chamber has a
exploration of microbes and their electrochemical activity circulating liquid inlet
mechanisms. to ensure the
recirculation of the
2.3. Exploration and Application of Biomass anode liquid.
Battery Prototypes Most have volumes of
Researchers have endeavored to construct various only a few
prototypes of batteries using biomass materials to achieve microliters, with an
electrochemical energy conversion and storage, and they have ion exchange
Micro-Type 10
initiated preliminary applications. Representative membrane separating
achievements include renewable lithium-ion and sodium-ion the cathode chamber
and the anode
batteries prepared from cellulose and lignin, flow batteries
chamber.
using chitin and seaweed as raw materials, and cellulose-
The structure consists
based supercapacitors. Biomass battery prototypes of a single anode
demonstrate high specific capacity, good cycling stability, and chamber with an air
cost-effectiveness advantages. Some studies have explored Cubic 11
cathode attached to
the application of biomass batteries in areas such as wearable the side of the anode
electronic devices and sensors, yielding reliable and feasible chamber.
results. While the construction of biomass battery prototypes The cell has a
has laid the foundation for practical applications, challenges cylindrical structure,
related to battery manufacturing scalability and cycle life and the cathode and
anode are attached to
persist, necessitating ongoing research and technological Cylindrical 12
the surface of the
breakthroughs to propel the industrialization of biomass shell, providing a
batteries. Single- larger proton
Chamber exchange area.
2.4. Existing Biomass Fuel Cell Structures Type The anode is buried in
Currently, to optimize the electrical output of microbial the sediment, while
fuel cells and meet various application scenarios, various the cathode is
microbial fuel cell structures have been developed, including submerged in the
Deposit-
upflow, cylindrical, and micro-type microbial fuel cells. To upper water layer, 13
Type
improve the utilization of the anode substrate, Lay et al. [39] using the sediment-
water interface as the
constructed an upflow microbial fuel cell to recover electrical
ion migration
energy from wastewater. Wastewater is pumped into the interface.
anode chamber, and after microbial electricity generation at Consists of only a
the anode, the treated wastewater is mixed with new incoming single micro anode
wastewater and returned to the anode chamber for secondary Micro-Type 14
chamber, with an air
treatment. This recycling method enhances the utilization of cathode.
organic matter in wastewater by the anode-producing
microorganisms, resulting in increased electrical energy 3. Application of Biomass Materials in
output from the upflow microbial fuel cell, with a maximum Batteries
power density of (356±24) mW/m². However, due to the
changing composition and flow conditions of the influent, the 3.1. Biomass Materials as Battery Electrode
performance of upflow microbial fuel cells is somewhat Materials
unstable. Biomass materials have significant potential as electrode
materials in batteries. Battery electrodes typically consist of
materials with high electrical conductivity and good chemical

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stability to enable efficient charge transfer and energy storage. 5. Innovative Technologies for Biomass
The application of biomass materials as battery electrode Material Energy Batteries
materials has garnered widespread research interest and
encompasses various types of batteries, including lithium-ion 5.1. Design of Biomass Material
batteries, sodium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and biomass Nanostructures
energy batteries. The use of biomass materials as battery
electrode materials provides feasible solutions for renewable The design of nanostructures in biomass materials is a
energy storage and holds the potential to drive sustainable crucial technology that can bring about several improvements
energy transformation. Through continuous research and by precisely controlling the morphology and structure of these
development, the performance of these biomass materials will materials. Firstly, nanostructures significantly increase the
be improved, making greater contributions to the specific surface area of electrode materials, enhancing battery
development of battery technology. capacity and energy density. Secondly, well-designed
nanostructures enhance the speed of electron and ion transport,
3.2. Biomass Materials as Electrolytes reducing internal resistance within the battery, particularly at
Electrolytes are another key component in batteries, used high current densities, leading to significantly improved
to conduct ions and separate the positive and negative battery efficiency. Nanostructure improvements in biomass
electrodes to ensure the normal operation of the battery. The materials also contribute to extending the battery's cycle life
application of biomass materials as electrolytes has generated by slowing down the degradation of electrode materials and
extensive research interest, especially in biomass energy prolonging battery lifespan. This innovative technology can
batteries, supercapacitors, and other electrochemical energy be achieved through various methods, including sol-gel
storage devices. Biomass materials as electrolytes not only processes, electrochemical deposition, template methods, and
enhance battery performance but also help reduce dependence bioprocessing, providing highly customizable solutions for
on harmful chemicals. These applications hold the potential different types and applications of batteries. Through
to provide new pathways for the sustainable development of continuous research and innovation, the design of
battery technology and environmentally friendly battery nanostructures in biomass materials is expected to provide
manufacturing. Through further research and development, robust support for the sustainable development of battery
biomass materials can become significant innovations in the technology and the storage of renewable energy.
field of battery electrolytes. 5.2. Functional Enhancement of Biomass
3.3. Application of Biomass Materials in Materials
Battery Packaging To enhance the performance of biomass materials in
Battery packaging is a crucial component of battery batteries, researchers have carried out various functional
assemblies designed to protect internal components, ensure enhancements, including surface modification, chemical
their safety and performance, and provide an external shell for modification, and material synthesis. These methods improve
the battery. The application of biomass materials in battery the electrochemical properties, stability, and reliability of
packaging offers potential environmental and sustainability biomass materials in batteries, enabling them to adapt to
advantages. It contributes to reducing reliance on harmful and different types of batteries and application requirements.
non-renewable resources, enhances the sustainability of 5.3. Advanced Battery Manufacturing
battery production, and reduces adverse environmental
impacts.
Techniques
Battery manufacturing techniques are also continually
4. Applications of Biomass Fuel Cells evolving to enhance battery performance and sustainability.
Advanced manufacturing technologies such as printing,
Biomass material battery has a wide application prospect. nanomanufacturing, and 3D printing have been applied in
The first is the field of renewable energy storage, which can battery production. These methods enable large-scale
be used to store the power output of intermittent photovoltaic production, cost reduction, and increased utilization of
and wind power generation to smooth its fluctuations and biomass materials. Innovative technologies will drive the
achieve stable power supply. Biomass batteries such as plant performance of biomass material energy batteries, providing
cellulose and lignin are very suitable for providing electric more efficient solutions for the storage and utilization of
power for electric vehicles and electric bicycles, and realizing renewable energy.
green travel with zero emissions. Due to the advantages of
sustainable material source and low cost, biomass batteries 6. Advantages and Challenges of
are very suitable for providing power for portable electronic
products such as mobile phones and wearable devices, and
Biomass Material Energy Batteries
realizing their green power supply. In terms of distributed 6.1. Advantages of Biomass Material Energy
energy systems, biomass batteries can build microgrids in Batteries
rural and remote areas and reduce dependence on grid
infrastructure. Microbial fuel cells can achieve both organic The most significant advantage of biomass energy batteries
pollutant treatment and power generation, providing dual is their low combustion and lack of pollution, as the
functions. In general, biomass batteries have shown great bioelectricity is directly derived from organic matter within
application potential in many fields, which will promote the living organisms [7]. Biomass materials are renewable and
development of green and low-carbon technologies and widely available. Their renewability makes them an ideal
realize the transformation of sustainable energy structure. candidate for sustainable energy, with the potential to reduce
dependence on finite fossil fuels. The production and use of
biomass material energy batteries typically emit fewer

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greenhouse gases and harmful substances, resulting in less electrolytes, and address practical application issues.
environmental impact, which contributes to mitigating Moreover, it is crucial to establish a sustainable biomass
climate change and improving air quality. Biomass energy production and utilization system and implement full life
batteries have a broad range of applications, including cycle management. Only through concerted efforts from
wearable electronic devices, microgrid systems, and rural governments, industries, and academia can we expedite the
power supply, making them a versatile and adaptive solution industrialization of biomass batteries and make them a potent
for various energy needs. Biomass materials are often tool for green and low-carbon development.
abundant and cost-effective, which can reduce the
manufacturing cost of batteries. References
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