Bio-nano generator
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2008-06-25T01:32:47Z
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A '''bio-nano generator''' is a [[nanotechnology|nanoscale]] [[electrochemistry|electrochemical]] device, like a [[fuel cell]] or [[galvanic cell]], but drawing power from [[blood glucose]] in a living body, much the same as how the body generates [[energy]] from [[food]]. To achieve the effect, an [[enzyme]] is used that is capable of stripping glucose of its [[electron]]s, freeing them for use in electrical devices.
The average person's body could, theoretically, generate 100 [[watt]]s of [[electricity]] using a bio-nano generator. However, this estimate is only true if all food was converted to electricity, and the human body needs some energy consistently, so possible power generated is likely much lower.
The electricity generated by such a device could power devices embedded in the body (such as [[artificial pacemaker|pacemakers]]), or sugar-fed [[Nanorobotics|nanorobot]]s.
A similar technology was presented in the [[The Matrix|Matrix]] series of [[science fiction]] [[film|major motion picture]]s, with robots shown enslaving mankind for its bio-energy.
Much of the research done on bio-nano generators is still experimental, with [[Panasonic]]'s Nanotechnology Research Laboratory among those at the forefront.
==External links==
* [http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/08/03/1059849278131.html Article detailing the technology and its development]
[[Category:Electric power]]
[[Category:Electrochemistry]]
[[Category:Electric batteries]]
[[Category:Fuel cells]]
[[Category:Nanotechnology]]