Sediment Batteries

The ring and strut structures for four "sediment batteries" were cut from transparent 3mm perspex, using the laser cutter at ProtoSpace's FabLab.  The assembled units (pictured) will generate energy from anaerobic microbial activity in sediments.  They were created as part of a lab practicum in Soil Ecology at UVA's Earth Science department, where their general efficiency will be tested, as well as their potential for use in environmental analysis.

The units were designed by Sebastiaan d.V., and parts cut at ProtoSpace by D.Holmes (with lots of help from friendly staff!).  Initial cutting parameters were the standard for 3mm perspex, as listed next to the laser cutter.  However, it was discovered that some of the pieces had not been entirely cut through.  This problem was solved by reducing cutting speed from 12% to 8%.