Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology say clothing can provide a flexible, foldable, and wearable source of electricity. Such "power shirts" would be ideal for hikers, soldiers, or others who depend on portable electronic devices.
The technology works through electricity-generating fibers that are woven into clothing. The fibers are coated with zinc oxide nanowires that generate a current through movement. This current is not to be mistaken with static electricity, as research proved against static as the generating source. According to Renewable Energy World, these nanogenerators can produce up to 800 nanoamperes and 20 millivolts of electricity.
Two improvements to the "power shirt" are now in the works: combining the fiber devices to increase future voltage and current capabilities, and designing a shirt that can actually be washed.
If the majority of your power needs fall located closer to home, solar panel installation may be your best bet. You can't wear them, but then again, you wouldn't want to.
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Friday, 16th of May 2008
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Friday, 16th of May 2008
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