New Device Converts Earth’s Infrared Light into Electricity at Night
Researchers at the University of New South Wales have made a significant advancement in renewable energy technology by developing a device capable of generating electricity from solar energy even after sunset. This innovative device captures the Earth’s infrared light and converts it into usable power, potentially revolutionizing nighttime energy supply.
How the Device Works
The new technology operates on the principle of thermoradiative power generation, which leverages the temperature difference between the Earth’s surface and the coldness of outer space. All objects emit infrared radiation, and this device is designed to capture that outgoing radiation to produce electricity.
Key to the device’s functionality is a specially designed semiconductor that efficiently captures the energy emitted as infrared light. Team leader Ned Ekins-Daukes stated, “We developed a semiconductor device that takes advantage of the radiant heat leaving the Earth. As that light is emitted, it generates electricity.”
Technology Inspired by Night-Vision Goggles
The semiconductor materials used in this device resemble those found in night-vision goggles. According to Dr. Phoebe Pearce, a project researcher, “Just like a solar cell generates electricity by absorbing sunlight from the sun, the thermoradiative diode generates electricity by emitting infrared light into a colder environment.” The principle of utilizing temperature differences is key to both technologies.
Currently, the efficiency of this new technology is low, producing about 100,000 times less power than traditional solar panels. However, it still serves as a clear demonstration of electrical power generation.
Potential Applications of Thermoradiative Technology
The research team envisions a wide range of applications for this technology that go beyond current energy sources. Professor Ekins-Daukes highlighted the possibility of using the device to harness body heat for power generation, which could reduce or eliminate the need for batteries in certain devices. He remarked, “This is an area where conventional solar power may not be practical.”
On a larger scale, the team is exploring the adaptation of this technology for spacecraft use. Satellites in low Earth orbit often encounter eclipses, relying on batteries during these dark periods. The thermoradiative diode could provide a viable solution by generating power even in the absence of sunlight.
Future Developments
Currently, researchers are preparing to test the thermoradiative diode in space within the next two years. Professor Ekins-Daukes noted, “We currently generate large amounts of electricity from solar power for homes using silicon solar cells, a technology initially developed for space. Similarly, we plan to utilize the thermoradiative diode in space soon.”
