3D Bioprinting of Cyanobacteria for Solar-driven Bioelectricity Generation in Resource-limited Environments

We demonstrate a hybrid biological photovoltaic device by forming a 3D cooperative biofilm of cyanobacteria and heterotrophic bacteria. 3D bioprinting technique was applied to engineer a cyanobacterial encapsulation in hydrogels over the heterotrophic bacteria. The device continuously generated bioelectricity from the heterotrophic bacterial respiration with the organic biomass supplied by the cyanobacterial photosynthesis. This innovative device platform can be the most suitable power source for unattended sensors, especially for those deployed in remote and resource-limited field locations.