Accession Number:

AD0450037

Title:

BIOCHEMICAL FUEL CELLS.

Descriptive Note:

Quarterly process rept. no. 8, 1 Apr-30 June 64,

Corporate Author:

MAGNA CORP ANAHEIM CA RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT DIV

Personal Author(s):

• Cavallo, J. J.

Report Date:

1964-06-30

Pagination or Media Count:

13.0

Abstract:

A biochemical fuel cell battery combining a formic acid bioanode with an air cathode was fabricated and successfully demonstrated. Current potential data obtained with this battery, utilizing lyophilized cells of Aeromonas formicans and coconut milk are presented. Investigation of the formic acid bioanode using Aeromonas formicans as the biological catalyst was continued. Great emphasis was placed on the preparation and analysis of natural carbohydrates for use as substrates in bioelectrode studies. Current-potential data obtained with the substrates coconut milk and banana extract are reported. The effects of varying the initial pH and ionic strength of a phosphate buffer system on the growth and concomitant acid production by Aeromonas formicans are also reported. Preliminary electrochemical studies using a palladized carbon electrode for the oxidation of formic acid, have produced current densities of 4 mAsq cm at a polarization of 0.32 Volt, compared to 10 mAsq cm on a palladium electrode. Author

Descriptors:

• *ELECTROCHEMISTRY
• BIOCHEMISTRY
• FUEL CELLS
• FUEL CELLS
• BATTERY COMPONENTS
• ELECTRODES
• BUFFERS
• PH FACTOR
• CARBOXYLIC ACIDS
• PHOSPHATES
• FRUITS
• PLANTS(BOTANY)
• BACTERIA
• GLUCOSE
• PALLADIUM
• CARBON
• AIR
• ELECTRIC CURRENT
• VOLTAGE
• CATALYSTS
• POWER SUPPLIES

Subject Categories:

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE