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Fabrication of Thylakoid Membrane-Based Photo-Bioelectrochemical Bioanode for Self-Powered Light-Driven Electronics

Author

Listed:
  • Amit Sarode

    (Center for Bioelectronics, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23508, USA)

  • Gymama Slaughter

    (Center for Bioelectronics, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23508, USA
    Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23508, USA)

Abstract

The transition toward sustainable and decentralized energy solutions necessitates the development of innovative bioelectronic systems capable of harvesting and converting renewable energy. Here, we present a novel photo-bioelectrochemical fuel cell architecture based on a biohybrid anode integrating laser-induced graphene (LIG), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and isolated thylakoid membranes. LIG provided a porous, conductive scaffold, while PEDOT enhanced electrode compatibility, electrical conductivity, and operational stability. Compared to MXene-based systems that involve complex, multi-step synthesis, PEDOT offers a cost-effective and scalable alternative for bioelectrode fabrication. Thylakoid membranes were immobilized onto the PEDOT-modified LIG surface to enable light-driven electron generation. Electrochemical characterization revealed enhanced redox activity following PEDOT modification and stable photocurrent generation under light illumination, achieving a photocurrent density of approximately 18 µA cm −2 . The assembled photo-bioelectrochemical fuel cell employing a gas diffusion platinum cathode demonstrated an open-circuit voltage of 0.57 V and a peak power density of 36 µW cm −2 in 0.1 M citrate buffer (pH 5.5) under light conditions. Furthermore, the integration of a charge pump circuit successfully boosted the harvested voltage to drive a low-power light-emitting diode, showcasing the practical viability of the system. This work highlights the potential of combining biological photosystems with conductive nanomaterials for the development of self-powered, light-driven bioelectronic devices.

Suggested Citation

  • Amit Sarode & Gymama Slaughter, 2025. "Fabrication of Thylakoid Membrane-Based Photo-Bioelectrochemical Bioanode for Self-Powered Light-Driven Electronics," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(12), pages 1-14, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:12:p:3167-:d:1680335
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