Revolutionary Flexible Nanogenerator Could Rival Solar Panels in Power Efficiency
Your morning jog might soon do more than just keep you fit; it could also power your wearable devices. Researchers at the University of Surrey have unveiled a groundbreaking flexible nanogenerator that boasts a 140-fold increase in power density over traditional models. This advancement could lead to nanodevices as efficient as modern solar panels, according to a recent study published in Nano Energy.
A New Era of Energy Harvesting
The Surrey Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) has developed a highly efficient nanogenerator capable of converting everyday mechanical energy—such as movement and vibrations—into substantial electrical power. While conventional nanogenerators typically produce around 10 milliwatts, this innovative device can deliver over 1,000 milliwatts. This leap in performance makes it suitable for a range of practical applications, from powering small electronic devices to potentially supporting larger systems.
Innovative Design Enhances Efficiency
The key to this breakthrough lies in the device’s design. The nanogenerator functions like a relay team: instead of a single electrode transferring energy, multiple electrodes work in tandem, collecting and amplifying electrical charge through a process known as the charge regeneration effect. This design significantly boosts energy collection and conversion efficiency.
Dr. Delavar Hussain, the lead author of the study, explained, “Our nanogenerator captures energy from everyday movements, such as jogging or mechanical vibrations, and could one day rival solar panels in efficiency.”
Future Prospects and Applications
The device is a type of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), which generates electricity by utilizing materials that become electrically charged through contact and separation. This technology holds promise for powering various applications, from off-grid sensors to smart home systems, all without the need for frequent battery replacements.
Dr. Bhaskar Dudem, co-author of the study, revealed that a new company will soon be launched to focus on autonomous, non-invasive healthcare sensors using this technology. “Innovations like these pave the way for sustainable medical technology and scalable industrial solutions,” he noted.
Professor Ravi Silva, Director of the Institute for Advanced Technology at the University of Surrey, emphasized the growing need for local green energy solutions. “With over 50 billion IoT devices anticipated in the near future, our nanogenerators offer a convenient and sustainable technology to meet this demand.”
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