A Novel, Bio-inspired Advanced Microfluidic Power System (BioAMPS)

Our objective is to develop (model, design, fabricate and test) a novel, Bio-inspired Advanced Microfluidic Power System (BioAMPS) to extract energy from biofuels. Unlike conventional technologies, BioAMPS will be compact/lightweight, require little or no logistical support (re-supply), reusable and eco-friendly. Phase I will deliver a biobattery system Product Design Requirement (PDR) document and demonstrate a system platform capable of delivering several mW-hr/cc of power. This is accomplished via several innovations: (a) MEMS/microfluidics-based architecture; (b) proprietary anode-cathode system that can reduce overall system weight significantly; (c) specially engineered electrodes for maximum electron transfer; and (d) simulation-based design of layout/geometries and protocols for maximizing performance. An ongoing research DoD funded effort focused on fundamental technology development of the power element will be leveraged in this study. The Phase I option will focus on system engineering and design optimization of individual components and operational protocols. The Phase II goal is an optimized lightweight biobattery system (with integrated power element, fuel supply, waste unit) that delivers 250 mW-hr/cc of sustained electricity for low power applications in the Objective Force Warrior (OFW) suite. Motorola and other organizations have expressed a strong interest in similar technology for commercial applications. A multidisciplinary team with proven expertise in biomicrosystems engineering, bioelectrochemistry and microfabrication has been assembled.