• A nanodevice developed at EPFL produces an autonomous, stable current from evaporating saltwater by using heat and light to control the movement of ions and electrons. • Previously, researchers in the Laboratory of Nanoscience for Energy Technology (LNET) in EPFL’s School of Engineering reported a platform for studying the hydrovoltaic (HV) effect-a phenomenon that allows electricity to be harvested when fluid is passed over the charged surface of a nanodevice. • Their platform consisted of a hexagonal network of silicon nanopillars, the space between which created channels for evaporating fluid samples.
Article Summaries:
- Researchers at EPFL’s Laboratory of Nanoscience for Energy Technology have demonstrated a nanodevice that generates a steady electric current from the evaporation of saltwater. By applying heat and light, the device directs ion and electron motion within a hexagonal lattice of silicon nanopillars, creating channels that facilitate hydrovoltaic flow. The platform builds on earlier work that explored the hydrovoltaic effect-producing electricity when fluid contacts a charged nanostructure. The new system delivers autonomous, stable power output, suggesting a potential route for harvesting energy from evaporative processes.
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