For over 20 years, Professor Choi’s dedicated research into "papertronics"—electronic circuits fabricated on biodegradable paper substrates—has sought to marry functionality with environmental responsibility. Unlike conventional electronics that persist as e-waste, transient electronics are meant to dissolve safely inside the human body or in natural settings after fulfilling their function, a property central to biomedical devices and ecological sensors. The challenge has always been the battery, the lifeblood of any electronic circuit. Traditional power sources, particularly lithium-ion batteries, pose significant biocompatibility and toxicity issues, undermining the devices’ transient promises.

Transient electronics must be bioresorbable; they require components that can dissolve or degrade without releasing harmful substances. While prior work by Choi’s team demonstrated the feasibility of biobatteries powered by electricity-generating bacteria, uncertainties remained surrounding the safety of these bacteria in natural ecosystems. The pivotal question has been whether these microorganisms could safely return to the environment without disrupting existing microbial milieus or causing health concerns. Inspired by this, Choi’s latest research took a bold new direction by employing probiotics—live beneficial microbes already proven safe for human consumption and environmental release.

Building on her groundbreaking doctoral research, Maedeh Mohammadifar developed early prototypes of dissolvable microbial fuel cells that utilized electricity-producing bacteria classified under Biosafety Level 1. This ensured the bacteria’s safe handling but did not fully assess safety post-deployment in an open environment. Addressing lingering concerns, current PhD candidate Maryam Rezaie embarked on extensive experimentation with a commercial blend of fifteen probiotic strains, seeking to verify their electrogenic capabilities. Probiotics present a unique advantage: their established safety profile avoids biosafety risks while potentially enabling electrical energy generation.

Initial results were underwhelming, reflecting the inherent challenges in coaxing probiotics to produce substantial electricity. However, the research team innovated by engineering a novel electrode surface, integrating polymers and nanoparticles to create a porous, roughened material favorable for bacterial adhesion and growth. This tailored environment enhanced electron transfer efficiency by increasing the electrode’s surface area and fostering a synergistic interface between electrogenic probiotics and the conductive substrate, a crucial step for augmenting bioelectricity production.

A further innovation involved coating the dissolvable paper’s electrode with a low pH-sensitive polymer designed to activate electricity generation only under acidic conditions, such as those found in polluted waters or the human gastrointestinal tract. This selective functionality not only optimizes power output but also ensures the battery’s operation aligns with specific biomedical or environmental scenarios, minimizing energy waste and enhancing safety. Such precision-controlled biodegradability marks a significant advancement in transient electronic design.

Although the resultant biobattery produces modest power levels relative to commercial batteries, its proven operation verifies the concept’s viability, setting a platform for future enhancements. Choi emphasizes the importance of continued research focusing on isolating probiotic strains with enhanced electric-generating genes and examining synergistic bacterial interactions that could amplify electricity output. Additionally, assembling multiple biobattery units in series or parallel configurations might exponentially improve the power supply, unlocking broader application potentials.

This marriage of microbiology and materials science promises transformational impacts on biomedical devices such as implantable sensors, environmental monitoring tools, and disposable electronics where sustainability and biocompatibility are paramount. Unlike conventional batteries, dissolvable probiotic biobatteries can safely disintegrate within living tissues or natural ecosystems, thereby eliminating hazardous waste accumulation. This breakthrough aligns with global pushes toward greener technologies and responsible innovation.

Professor Choi’s work illustrates how interdisciplinary approaches can solve longstanding technological challenges. By shifting focus from traditional toxic components to biologically benign probiotics, his team creates a paradigm shift in transient electronics—transforming power sources from environmental liabilities to eco-friendly, biocompatible assets. Though hurdles remain in scaling and optimizing these devices, the foundational research lays critical groundwork for the next generation of sustainable electronics.

Beyond fundamental scientific advances, this research holds promise for real-world applications that previously seemed unattainable. For example, ingestible medical devices powered by probiotic batteries could monitor internal health parameters in real-time, then harmlessly dissolve, averting surgical removal procedures. Similarly, environmental sensors deployed in sensitive habitats could deliver data and then biodegrade, reducing human impact on fragile ecosystems.

In summary, Professor Seokheun “Sean” Choi and his team have demonstrated a pioneering approach to powering transient electronics with dissolvable, probiotic-fueled biobatteries. Their efforts highlight the feasibility of biocompatible, environmentally benign power sources capable of safely disintegrating post-use. As transient electronics move from theory to practical deployment, innovations like these will be vital in ensuring that the electronics of tomorrow are as sustainable as they are sophisticated.

Subject of Research: Cells

Article Title: Dissolvable Probiotic-Powered Biobatteries: A Safe and Biocompatible Energy Solution for Transient Applications

News Publication Date: 26-Mar-2025

Web References:
DOI: 10.1002/smll.202502633

Image Credits: Seokheun “Sean” Choi

Keywords:
Batteries, Energy storage, Electrical engineering, Engineering, Bacteria, Microbiology, Bacteriology, Probiotics, Microorganisms

The journey of memory technology that Moise championed signifies a transformative leap in how electronic devices store and access data. By developing a memory technology capable of storing data at speeds 100 times faster while consuming significantly less power compared to traditional methods, Moise and his team laid the groundwork for a fundamental shift in electronic design and application. This leap is not merely a technical novelty; it represents a response to the growing demand for more efficient, reliable, and sustainable electronic devices in an era that increasingly relies on digital infrastructure.

Moise’s ascent to the directorship of the North Texas Semiconductor Institute (NTxSI) at UT Dallas is a culmination of his diverse experiences and his extensive knowledge gained at TI. After retiring from TI in 2021, he joined UT Dallas, positioning himself to foster an environment where semiconductor innovation can flourish. His leadership is pivotal as the NTxSI aims to drive advancements in semiconductor technology and promote workforce development in North Texas—a region poised to become a major hub for semiconductor research and innovation.

In recognition of his contributions to the field, Moise will join the ranks of 170 distinguished inventors to be inducted into the 2024 Class of NAI Fellows at an annual ceremony in Atlanta. This honor not only elevates his status among peers but also brings significant visibility to UT Dallas and its pioneering research initiatives. As Moise indicates, this recognition isn’t just a personal milestone; it symbolizes the importance of transformative technologies like ferroelectric random-access memory (FRAM) in bettering quality of life and advancing economic development.

The technical details surrounding FRAM reveal its substantial benefits over conventional memory. Unlike traditional memory systems, FRAM utilizes a class of materials known as ferroelectrics, allowing data to be stored non-volatilely, meaning the information persists without a constant power supply. Such attributes make FRAM particularly desirable for applications ranging from microcontrollers to biomedical devices, where reliable data retention is essential. As electronic devices evolve, the demand for advanced memory solutions that can operate effectively under various conditions grows, positioning FRAM at the forefront.

The transition from theoretical development to high-volume manufacturing was anything but simple. Moise led TI’s research efforts on FRAM starting in 1997, and the process entailed overcoming a multitude of engineering challenges that spanned over two decades. The collaborative efforts of a dedicated team, including co-inventor Dr. Scott Summerfelt, were integral to navigating these hurdles. Their commitment to innovation helped bring FRAM technology from the labs to mass production, culminating in the introduction of the first embedded FRAM chip—a significant milestone that showcased the technology’s commercial viability.

The influence of FRAM technology can be felt across various sectors, notably in industries that demand low power consumption and high reliability. From automotive applications that record crucial data to medical devices essential for monitoring patient health, FRAM technology is embedded in an array of devices that enhance human lives. Its exceptional radiation resistance also makes it a prime candidate for use in space applications, where conventional memory technologies may falter.

As a testament to his innovation, Moise holds an impressive portfolio of 51 patents. These patents acclaim not only his contributions to semiconductor technology but also reflect a broader commitment to advancing engineering as a discipline. His educational background, which includes dual bachelor’s degrees in physics and engineering from Trinity College and a PhD in electrical engineering from Yale University, underscores the interdisciplinary nature of his work. It’s this combination of rigorous academic pursuit and practical application that has allowed Moise to remain at the cutting edge of technology.

Reflecting on his designation as an NAI fellow, Moise articulates a profound sense of honor and responsibility. He views this recognition as an acknowledgment of the significant impact that FRAM has had on the world, reinforcing engineering’s objective of creating solutions that promote societal well-being. His narrative encapsulates the triumph over risks and adversity inherent in pioneering new technologies, demonstrating a career dedicated to transforming initial concepts into lasting, validated innovations.

The story of Dr. Ted Moise is one of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to advancing technology for the betterment of society. As he continues to lead efforts at the North Texas Semiconductor Institute, the future looks bright not only for Moise but also for the semiconductor landscape which he has helped cultivate. In an age defined by rapid technological evolution, leaders like Moise are essential in shaping the trajectory of innovation and ensuring that breakthroughs translate into real-world applications that enhance our daily lives.

With upcoming developments in semiconductor technology on the horizon, the insights and expertise brought by Moise and his contemporaries will be invaluable. Their ongoing research promises to address emerging challenges and define the next generation of memory technology, ensuring that we remain aligned with the demands of a digitized world. The landscape of electronic engineering is evolving, and with it, the potential for groundbreaking advancements led by figures like Dr. Ted Moise.

Subject of Research: Semiconductor Technology Innovations
Article Title: Dr. Ted Moise: Revolutionizing Memory Technology in Semiconductors
News Publication Date: October 2023
Web References: North Texas Semiconductor Institute, UT Dallas
References: National Academy of Inventors
Image Credits: Credit: The University of Texas at Dallas

Keywords

Semiconductors, Memory Technology, Ferroelectricity, Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Devices, Innovation, Patents, Semiconductor Research, UT Dallas, National Academy of Inventors, Dr. Ted Moise