A new battery based on DNA scaffolds could provide an alternative power source for military personnel in the field, according to the U.K. Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL). The bio-batteries under development with Touchlight Genetics in the U.K., the U.S. Department of Defense and the University of Utah are intended as a safer, more sustainable power source for electronic devices carried by soldiers compared to conventional options.

Composed of DNA, enzymes, lactate and water, the natural components in the battery are degraded by enzymes to release electrons for capture and use as power. The bio-batteries degrade over time, unlike toxic chemicals found in conventional batteries, and could also provide off-grid power in a less exposed way than solar panels, which must be located in open environments.

DNA-based batteries could provide a safer, more sustainable power source compared to conventional options. Source: DSTL

According to its developers, the energy-dense device is easily portable and scalable. The battery components are contained in a hydrogel that can be dried and reconstituted with seawater or freshwater, making the battery suitable for marine as well as terrestrial deployments.

An electric current density of 40 milliamps/cm² has been demonstrated. Scaling up the battery in a technology demonstrator prototype is the next goal.