Abstract: An electric power generation system is provided. The electric power generation system includes an electric power generation device and an ambient environment comprising an atmospheric relative humidity of at least 20%. The electric power generation device includes a thin film of protein nanowires or a nanowire composite, the thin film having an opposing first surface and second surface. The electric power generation device also includes a first electrode and a second electrode, electrically connected to the first surface and second surface, respectively, of the thin film. At least one of the first surface and the second surface of the thin film is at least partially exposed to the ambient environment. A moisture gradient and charge gradient is therefore created and maintained in the thin film to continuously generate power.

Abstract: An aerobic microbial fuel cell anode electrode, a fuel cell using the anode, and methods of use. An anode electrode having a conductive exterior surface and having sufficient porosity to allow a fuel-bearing liquid flowing in a cavity within the anode to escape and to supply fuel to a biologically active microbe film grown on the exterior of the anode is situated in the fuel cell. When operated in an aerobic environment, such as water, the anode and a cathode can supply electrical power to a load without the need for a semi-permeable membrane between the anode and the cathode. Several embodiments in which the anode electrode is machined from a graphite block or cylinder are described. Conditions for growing the biologically active film and for operating the fuel cell are described.

Abstract: An aerobic microbial fuel cell anode electrode, a fuel cell using the anode, and methods of use. An anode electrode having a conductive exterior surface and having sufficient porosity to allow a fuel-bearing liquid flowing in a cavity within the anode to escape and to supply fuel to a biologically active microbe film grown on the exterior of the anode is situated in the fuel cell. When operated in an aerobic environment, such as water, the anode and a cathode can supply electrical power to a load without the need for a semi-permeable membrane between the anode and the cathode. Several embodiments in which the anode electrode is machined from a graphite block or cylinder are described. Conditions for growing the biologically active film and for operating the fuel cell are described.

Abstract: Conductive nanowires, as are available from a range of bacteria species, methods of use and related device structures.