Researchers at the University of Binghamton in the state of New York developed a paper-based battery, with dramatically improved efficacy in order to reduce WEEE. Other paper-based batteries have been proposed in the past as an environmentally friendly alternative, but the designs and ease of production were never optimal, and there were also questions as to whether biodegradable was in Reality. However, the new battery plan surpasses these problems by using a hybrid of paper and modified polymers. The polymers Polyamiko acid and Polypyromellitiki-P-Phenylenediamine were the key to attributing real biodegradation properties to the batteries. The researchers examined the breakdown of the battery in water and this proved successful without the need of special installations and conditions, or the introduction of other microorganisms. In addition, the battery has a much higher power-to-cost ratio than all other paper-based microbial batteries, the scientific team supports. "There is a dramatic increase in electronic waste and this battery could be an excellent way to begin to diminish," said Assistant Professor Seochioyn, a member of the research team, pointing to the much higher Power ratio to cost from previous batteries. Polymer-paper structures are lightweight, low-cost and flexible, which allows for easy power increase and modifications depending on the configuration required. Most electronic wastes now end up in landfills and batteries in particular can emit toxic chemicals. According to a UN report last year, only 20% of electronic waste in the world is recycled. Source: B2green
