Learn About The New Energy Harvester
Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a device that can turn mechanical energy – such as the kinetic energy of wind, waves, body movement and vibrations from motors – into electricity. And one of its remarkable attributes is that it works perfectly well underwater.
The heart of the energy harvester is a liquid metal alloy of gallium and indium that is encased in a hydrogel, i.e., a soft, elastic polymer swollen with water.
Since the device is soft, any mechanical motion can cause it to deform, including squishing, stretching and twisting.
The researchers already have two related projects under way. One project is aimed at using the technology to power wearable devices by increasing the harvester's power output. The second project evaluates how this technology could be used to harvest wave power from the ocean.
Click here to read the North Carolina State University news.
