The global interest in solar energy solutions is enormous. A couple of weeks ago we explored some of the most promising technologies, but today we come across a novelty from the National University of Singapore. There, a group of researchers has developed a prototype of a Shadow-Effect Generator that harnesses the contrast between shadows and illuminated areas to generate small amounts of electricity, ideal for cases like wearable devices and sensors.
For now, the most effective way to satisfy the energy hunger of our devices is by applying a brute-force strategy, that is, a charger and a battery. Manufacturers have made enormous efforts to improve efficiency parameters in their products, but the need for the umbilical cord has not disappeared, and it is most likely never will. However, some devices are more than ready to use alternative and independent energy sources. Remote controls, clocks, and sensors are the first examples that come to mind, but the question is: What can we use?
Electricity from Shadows
The National University of Singapore has an unusual proposal: Shadows, or to be a bit more precise, the contrast between illuminated and dark areas. A team of researchers at that institution created the first prototype of a Shadow-Effect Generator, based on a series of cells placed on a flexible and transparent plastic film. Each cell uses a silicon wafer with an ultra-thin layer of gold deposited on it. When the cells are in darkness or under full light, they barely show activity, but everything changes with the right contrast.
At first, light on the silicon energizes its electrons, similar to a conventional solar cell. But those electrons jump from silicon to gold. While one part of the device remains in the shadow, the voltage of the illuminated metal increases relative to the dark area, and the generator's electrons flow from high to low voltage. The rest is a matter of connecting the generator to a circuit.
How much energy are we talking about? The original paper mentions a density of 0.14 microwatts per square centimeter, while in other tests, a combination of eight generators delivered 1.2 volts, enough for a digital clock. In fact, the generators can also act as sensors, since by creating a temporary shadow over them, it is possible to turn on LED lights. What's next? The researchers believe the manufacturing cost will be very low, so the priority is none other than improving performance.
Access the study: Click here
Official site: Click here
https://old.neoteo.com/alessandro-volta-y-la-electricidad-animal/
