Carbon Nanotube–Enabled Biofuel Cell for High‑Efficiency Biopower Generation | New Jersey Institute of Technology

Carbon Nanotube–Enabled Biofuel Cell for High‑Efficiency Biopower Generation

Carbon Nanotube–Enabled Biofuel Cell for High‑Efficiency Biopower Generation (Integrated Biofuel Cell with Aligned Nanotube Electrodes and Method of Use Thereof, Tech ID: 06‑039)

Technology Overview: This is an integrated biofuel cell that leverages aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) electrodes to significantly enhance electrochemical performance. The aligned CNT architecture provides high surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and improved electron transfer between enzymes and electrodes. This results in increased power density and stability compared to conventional biofuel cells. The system is designed for miniaturization and integration into portable or implantable devices, where traditional batteries are limited by size, recharge requirements, or biocompatibility constraints.

Industry Pain Point: Conventional biofuel cells suffer from low power output and inefficient electron transfer, limiting commercial viability.

NJIT Solution: The aligned CNT electrodes enable highly efficient catalytic interfaces, substantially improving energy generation and operational stability.

Key Features & Advantages

  • Aligned carbon nanotube electrodes for enhanced electron transfer
  • Higher power density than traditional biofuel cell designs
  • Scalable architecture suitable for miniaturized systems
  • Compatible with biological fuels and enzymatic catalysts

Development Stage: TRL 4–5 – Laboratory validation with demonstrated performance improvements.

Target Markets

  • Implantable medical devices
  • Portable and wearable power systems
  • Biosensors and low‑power electronics

Market Opportunity

  • Global biofuel cell market (2026): ~$250M
  • CAGR: ~18–20%
  • Projected market size (2035): ~$1.1–1.3B

Commercial & IP Details

Inventors: Zafar Iqbal, YuBing Wang

Patent Information:
Category(s):
Energy, Batteries & Decarbonization
For Information, Contact:
Ikechukwu Nwabufo
IP Licensing & Marketing Manager
in49@njit.edu
Inventors:
Zafar Iqbal
Yubing Wang
Keywords:
Biofuel Cells
Biosensors
Implants
Medical Device
Patent Issued
Portable
Portable Power
Wearable