Water-Based Primary Cell for Powering of Wireless Sensors

In this paper, we propose a novel concept for powering of wireless sensors, based on an electrochemical cell in which water (e.g. tap, lake or rainwater) serves as an electrolyte. Two metal electrodes made from different metals, by contacting with water generate a small electric current, which can be used for powering the electrical circuit of wireless sensors. For demonstration purpose, the electrical energy charges a super capacitor which feeds a step-up converter, raising the output voltage for a transmitter circuit.