Saruketha - A Sri Lankan Experience

Located in Kurunegala is a uniquely Sri Lankan restaurant named "Saruketha". Staying true to its name it has a refreshing, Sri Lankan village type atmosphere. A lot of attention has been given in creating that place, from the thatched roofs to the ambient music being played through perforated clay pots..They have a menu with a wide selection that is not restricted to Sri Lankan cuisine. The food is not exceptional although its unique surroundings and atmosphere makes it a worthy visit. However, the thing that grabbed my attention most is this funny weather forecast sign displayed at the entrance..

Weather Forecast

Using Bacteria to generate Electricity

It may sound like science fiction, but its actually a possibility that is under extensive research at the moment. The bacterium named "Shewanella" has the unique ability to reduce metals and some other compounds. This reduction process requires electrons to be supplied to the material that undergoes reduction. In order to achieve this, The Shewanella bacterium produces electrons and transfers them beyond its cell membrane to the material by secreting certain proteins. Since a flow of electrons is essentially an electric current, this means that this bacterium is capable of producing electricity, in theory at least. Currently research is being conducted to find ways to exploit this unique ability of the Shewanella bacterium to produce a stable source of electricity. If properly developed this can lead to a very effective and environmentally friendly alternate energy source and could give rise to other technologies such as fuel cells of biological origin.

Shewanella  (image from wikipedia)