Nov-25-12
Researchers have developed a new material able to generate power from static electricity, opening the doors to devices that can be charged as they move about in a pocket.
A team at Georgia Tech created the tiny generator using a two-layer material made of a polymer and a thin sheet of aluminum. These two materials will become charged when they contact each other, and flexing them will create a current that can be harnessed to charge a battery. Adding a pattern of nanoscale stuctures to the materials creates a greater surface area, which in turn enhances the friction and the amount of power the materials are able to produce.
The generator is able to convert 10 to 15 percent of mechanical energy to electricity, and the use of thinner materials could increase that amount to as high as 40 percent.
Image: Jeff Hire
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