home

Table of Contents:
Overview Electron Transport Immobilization Stability Complete Oxidation

**Sweet Energy**
Implantable bio-fuel cells are fuel cell that require the use of active biocatalysts. These biocatalysts converts the energy of chemical compounds into electric energy via redox reactions and may be used to power microscale devices [1]. Enzymatic fuel cells (EFC) work using the same principles as a traditional bio-fuel cell but employ enzyme as catalysts rather than noble metals. EFC’s typically have a lower production cost compared to traditional cells, as transition metals are limited in availability. Current implantable devices, using metallic catalysts, have a life-span of only 5-10 years and require replacement [2]. In addition, the frequent incisions necessary for battery replacements are also harmful to the body.

Along with high efficiency, selectivity, and activity, the advantages of EFCs over traditional cells provoke researchers to further advancements in this field. Drawbacks in EFCs are their lower volumetric catalyst density. Due to large enzyme molecules, the active sites available per volume are lower compared to traditional cells. Also, EFC currently being studied have a short lifetime due to the stability of the enzyme [1].

= = An attempt will be made to provide a brief overview of current research that is being undertaken in the development of these bio-fuel cells. The project will focus on current advancements that allows enzymatic fuel cells to be that much closer to practical usage in patients. As well, an attempt to provide an overview of some of the restrictions posed by current technological limitations will also be discussed.

=References=

1.Shleev et al. 2008. A membrane-, mediator-, cofactor-less glucose/oxygen biofuel cell. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics. 10(40): 6069-6200. 2. Oncescu V, Erickson D. 2011. A microfabricated low cost enzyme-free glucose fuel cell for powering low-power implantable devices. Journal of Power Sources. 196:9169-9175.

__GROUP 3__
The TEAM



From Left to Right: D. Walker, P. Ngo, E. Luong, P. Tran, Y.Taha