Silicon Surface Boosts the Output of Autonomous Power Sources

Silicon Surface Boosts the Output of Autonomous Power Sources
Curtin University researchers have discovered an effective way to enhance the output of autonomous power sources used to run essential mining equipment underground. Mishainik/Adobe Stock
Steve Milne
Updated:

Research from Australia’s Curtin University has discovered an effective way to enhance the output of autonomous power sources commonly used to power essential mining equipment in underground or remote locations with no power points and where batteries are not practical.

Published in the journal “Nano Energy”, the research found that using silicon on the surfaces of autonomous power sources—namely triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs)—significantly increased both the voltage and duration of the output, meaning equipment could be kept charged much longer than had previously been possible.

Steve Milne
Steve Milne
Writer
Steve is an Australian reporter based in Sydney covering sport, the arts, and politics. He is an experienced English teacher, qualified nutritionist, sports enthusiast, and amateur musician. Contact him at [email protected].
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