MIT Sponge Converts Solar Energy to Steam

Jul-26-14 MIT researchers have created a sponge-like material that is able to covert as much as 85 percent of solar energy into steam—offering a possible new alternative source for electricity as well as desalinization and sterilization.

The sponge is made up of a composite of graphite flakes spread atop a layer of carbon foam, which results in a porous, insulating material that can float on liquid. Sunlight hitting the surface of the material causes a hotspot in the graphite that creates a pressure differential, which draws the water through the carbon foam and up into the graphite layer. The water in the graphite layer is then heated to form steam.

The sponge can be made from relatively inexpensive materials, and could find applications in small, steam-powered devices that are not effectively operated by solar-powered steam generators.

More Info about this Invention:

[EXTREMETECH.COM]
[MIT.EDU]

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