The contribution of solar generators: black metal generated 15 times more electricity at the online magazine Basic Thinking. You can start the day well every morning via our newsletter update.
So far, solar generators have been considered not very efficient. However, researchers have now managed the performance of the technology to increase 15 times. A black metal enables electricity from light and heat to generate.
Classic solar modules convert sunlight into electricity. But they only work with direct sunlight and are not particularly efficient when it comes to using heat. Researchers at the University of Rochester However, have developed a device that is intended to increase the energy yield by 15 times.
The background: In contrast to the so -called photovoltaic effect, solar thermal generators (StEG) convert a temperature difference into electricity. They consist of a hot and a cold side that are separated by semiconductors.
The sun heats one side and generates temperature differences. Electricity is again created over the so-called Seebeck effect. So far, however, the technology has not been particularly efficient. The best models managed to convert less than one percent of solar energy into electricity.
Black metal: the secret of the new solar generators
The researchers took care of the problem and solved it with a triple approach. They converted an ordinary piece of Wolfram into a “selective” absorber material. With the help of an ultra -fast laser, a so -called femtosecond laser, they worked on the surface of the metal so that it almost looks like a microstructure.
The result was a “black metal” that absorbs over 80 percent of the sunlight, but at the same time minimizes the heat radiation. It is like sucking in the sun’s rays, but not handing over the heat. This process increases the temperature on the hot side.
The researchers then built a kind of mini greenhouse above the black metal. A simple plastic cover was sufficient to reduce heat loss due to convection, i.e. the heat output in the air to reduce more than 40 percent. So the heat remained exactly where it was needed.
More than just electricity: a big step for energy research?
In a third step, the scientists also optimized the cold side of the bridge. With the same laser method as before, they worked on an aluminum surface so that it could derive the heat particularly well. This doubled the cooling capacity and maximized the temperature difference between the two sides.
The result of these three optimizations is a bridge generator that generates 15 times more electricity than the most efficient devices so far. The technology could thus become a real alternative from a niche application.
Because solar generators are not only able to operate LEDs, but can also serve as a power source for wireless sensors on the Internet of Things or as an energy source for portable devices. In theory, they can even be used in remote areas, where there is no access to the power grid.
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As a tech industry expert, I find the concept of black metal solar generators intriguing. The idea that black metal can generate 15 times more electricity than traditional solar panels is impressive and could potentially revolutionize the renewable energy industry.
The increased efficiency of black metal solar generators could make solar power more accessible and affordable for a wider range of consumers. This could have significant implications for reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and combating climate change.
However, it is important to thoroughly research and test the technology to ensure its safety, reliability, and environmental impact. As with any new technology, there may be unforeseen challenges or drawbacks that need to be addressed.
Overall, I am excited about the potential of black metal solar generators and look forward to seeing how this technology develops in the future.
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