Hygroelectricity

Why in news?

• Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have developed a technology called hygroelectricity.

About Hygroelectricity:

• Hygroelectricity generates electricity from humid air.
• This concept, explored by Nikola Tesla, has been a subject of scientific inquiry for decades and is now closer to becoming a reality. The technology utilizes a device with two electrodes and a thin layer of material filled with nanopores.

How it works?

• As the water molecules move from an upper chamber to a lower chamber, they interact with the edges of the nanopores, leading to the buildup of electric charge imbalances between the chambers.
• This process effectively transforms the device into a miniature battery, generating continuous electricity.
• Researchers compare the device to a small-scale, man-made cloud that converts air humidity into usable electricity.
• Its potential applications include powering miniature computers, sensors, and providing sustainable energy sources for remote locations.
• Also it is versatile; applicable to a range of materials with the necessary nanopores.
• Unlike solar and wind energy, air humidity is continuously available, making it a sustainable reservoir of energy.

Add ons:

• Currently, the device can produce electricity equivalent to only a fraction of a volt, making scaling up for practical energy demands a challenge.
• More data on power output and cost-effectiveness is needed for widespread adoption of this revolutionary energy source.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

The term ‘Hygroelectricity’ refers to electricity generated from

(a) Running water

(b) Humid air

(b) Temperature differences in ocean waters

(d) Tides

Answer