Imagine powering your wearable devices simply by going for a morning jog. This could soon be a reality, thanks to groundbreaking technology developed at the University of Surrey. Researchers at the Surrey Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) have unveiled a highly efficient, flexible nanogenerator that boasts a staggering 140-fold increase in power density compared to conventional models.
The breakthrough, detailed in the journal Nano Energy, could signal a major shift in how we harness energy. The new nanogenerators are designed to convert everyday mechanical energy—like the motion of jogging or the vibrations from ocean waves—into significant electrical power. Traditional nanogenerators produce about 10 milliwatts of power, but this advanced technology can generate over 1,000 milliwatts, making it viable for various applications.
ATI’s nanogenerator utilizes a relay-like mechanism, where multiple electrodes work together to amplify energy collection. This process, known as the charge regeneration effect, allows for an impressive increase in power output. Dr. Delavar Hussain, lead author of the study, highlights the potential of this technology to harness energy from daily movements and power everything from off-grid sensors to smart home systems without the need for battery replacements.
The nanogenerator, classified as a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), functions similarly to static electricity. It uses materials that become electrically charged upon contact and then separate, creating an efficient energy capture mechanism.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bhaskar Dudem, a co-author of the study, notes that the team plans to launch a company focused on non-invasive healthcare sensors using this technology. Professor Ravi Silva, Director of the Institute for Advanced Technology at Surrey, envisions a future where these devices could power billions of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, offering a green and sustainable energy solution.
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