Squeezing loofah sponges creates enough electricity to power LEDs

Loofah sponges, which are made from the dried husks of luffa plants, can generate enough electricity to power LEDs when squeezed. Researchers believe this discovery could lead to environmentally friendly and cost-effective power supplies for small devices.

The loofah material was chemically treated to remove lignin and hemicellulose, leaving behind only a cellulose crystal form. When a 6-millimeter-thick section of the sponge was squashed by hand, it generated up to 8 nanoamps of electricity. When placed into an electrical circuit with capacitors, it was able to briefly power six LED lights.

Although loofah sponges may not currently produce enough energy for practical use, they could inspire the development of artificial alternatives that are easier to produce.