Creating Electricity from Bouncing Water Droplets

Jul-24-14 A new method of generating electricity from condensation also happens to create clean water as a side product—making the technology particularly useful in developing countries.

The technique, created by a team from MIT, was based upon the observation that water droplets on superhydrophobic surface convert their surface energy to kinetic energy as they move to form into larger droplets. During this process, the droplets will sometimes "spontaneously jump away," which causes them to develop a small electric charge.

The team then went on to create a series of plates made by alternating water-repellent copper oxide with water-attracting copper. As the droplets move from one plate to other, they carry that electrical charge with them. And, by connecting the plates with a circuit, the charge could be harnessed to generate power. According to the team, any area where dew forms could provide enough condensation to create a least a few hours of power each morning.

More Info about this Invention:

[CO.UK]
[MIT.EDU]

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