A bio-battery is an energy storage device that is driven by organic compounds, usually glucose, such as glucose in human blood. When enzymes in human bodies break down glucose, several electrons and protons are released. Therefore, by using enzymes to break down glucose, bio-batteries directly receive the energy of glucose. These batteries store this energy for later use. This concept is almost identical to how plants and many animals get energy. Although batteries are still being tested before being sold commercially, several research teams and engineers are working to further advance the development of these batteries.
Like any cellular battery, the bio-batteries contain an anode, a cathode, a separator and an electrolyte with each component layered on top of another. Anodes and cathodes are the positive and negative areas of a battery that allow electrons to flow in and out. The anode is located on the top of the battery and the cathode is located on the bottom of the battery. The anodes allow the electrons to flow from outside the battery, while the cathodes allow the current to flow from the battery.
Between the anode and the cathode is the electrolyte containing a separator. The main function of the separator is to keep the cathode and the anode apart, to avoid electrical short circuits. This system as a whole allows a flow of protons (H +) and electrons (e-) that ultimately generates electricity.