Sunday 23 October 2016

Ljubljana tests II (October) - new type of anodes and cathodes

New tests focused on a different type of anode and cathode. Original tests were made with simple curved round end of stainless steel rod on which carbon fibre was attached using stainless steel mesh. both materials work as anode and cathode. When meat is decomposing we took into account that content of the bottle should be replaced - for example between exhibitions. It would theoretically also produce more power if content could be mixed during decomposing (future tests). In this regard - carbon cloth has no function. After cleaning with water or otherwise (mechanically) it has no function anymore as it gets destroyed. Also, circulation of heavy particles would damaged carbon cloth. Graphite rods are easy to clean as they are solid.

 proton exchange membrane with agar agar salt bridge



Cathode made from the stripe of carbon fibre 1 m long 5 cm width (photo below is a sample)


The main part of anode/cathode is 40 mm round stainless steel washer connected with stainless steel screw and stainless steel nuts. For the cathode carbon fibre is wrapped around a screw and protected with wrapping of stainless steel wire mesh.


For the anode, holes are drilled through washers. Graphite rods (smooth sandpapered and cleaned with nitro thinner artistic drawing pencils - for tests different softness) are assembled into the whole anode through holes and pressed with a screw)


an example of both electrodes


construction of salt bridge through EVA foam stopper





Old meat blended



 Meat and water blended = 500 g


in 500 ml of water 8 g of probiotic cultures were mixed


100 ml of probiotic cultures is mixed to 500 g of meat + methylene blue (10 drops)






1st of November update:



- all the results are varying. If there would be some conclusion from them is that HB graphite has better electro-conductivity than softer (probably more dirty graphite)