Biodegradable electronics

The build-up of electronic wastes, quite often toxic to humans and other life forms, has prompted scientists to search for biodegradable electronics. Recently scientists have reported a biodegradable and biocompatible battery, made from melanin, the pigment in our skins.

Melanins are found in many organisms - including plants. They are polymers composed of different types of aromatic compounds. And they make good anodes for aqueous Sodium ion batteries. Such batteries will perhaps be useful for chronic implants such as pacemakers, neurostimulators, and cochlear implants.

For more details see the current issue of the Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences. 

PNAS vol. 110 no. 52, 20912–20917 (2013)