There is no doubt that we live in a tech-dominated society. Smart devices have integrated themselves into our lives in numerous ways, be they smartphones, smart appliances, or even smart floss dispensers. (No, I didn’t make that up.) While these devices have undoubtedly made our lives easier, there is one consistent problem that seems to plague them: they run out of juice quite quickly.
We’ve all been traveling out and about, had a smartphone plunge below 0%, and subsequently realized we don’t even know the way home without our trusty device. Plus, we all know how awkward it is to be that person that asks to borrow a charger at a party. Therefore, it’s definitely time for a new charging solution. And what is that solution you might ask?
Humans, of course! Is it just me, or does this have a whole Soylent Green feel to it?
You Have the Power
Detailed in a recent Advanced Energy Materials journal study, it appears that scientists from the University of Surrey’s Advanced Technical Institute have found an interesting new solution for battling those ever-dwindling battery numbers: Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs), which look to be an organic way of gathering energy. But what are these difficult-to-pronounce devices? Let’s take a deeper look.
Let’s Talk About TENGs
Utilizing contact between multiple materials in order to create an electric current, TENGs are devices that very well could revolutionize our device-filled yet energy-drained society. The researchers from the ATI even created a comprehensive guide on constructing the devices, which include a specialized energy equation and ways to maximize the TENG’s output. You can see the complex yet insightful official documents at the Wiley Online Library.
What Can TENGs Do For You?
Obviously, this new technology will be helpful for when an outlet or power bank is just out of reach. And, while that is unbelievably convenient, TENGs also have the potential to substantially increase energy sustainability. According to Advanced Technical Institute Professor Ravi Silva, “A world where energy is free and renewable is a cause that we are extremely passionate about here at the ATI.” Needless to say, if TENGs become a commonplace device, they could not only help you save on your electric bills, but also work towards a more sustainable future.
