[science] Interesting new potential energy source, protein based "water vapor"

"We are literally making electricity out of thin air," said in a statement, Yao. "The Air-gen generates clean energy 24/7."

The novel device uses a natural protein to create electricity from moisture in the air. The technology is renewable, non-polluting and low-cost.

Unlike other forms of renewable energy such as wind and solar, this new tech does not require sunlight or wind. All it needs is a thin film of protein nanowires.



The current Air-gen devices can already power small electronics. Now, the researchers are seeking to bring their innovation to commercial scale.

"The ultimate goal is to make large-scale systems. For example, the technology might be incorporated into wall paint that could help power your home. Or, we may develop stand-alone air-powered generators that supply electricity off the grid. Once we get to an industrial scale for wire production, I fully expect that we can make large systems that will make a major contribution to sustainable energy production," said Yao.

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Danno said:

Countdown until the all the big banks that have money in oil kill these people...

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consultant said:

They told me 10 years ago i would be able to paint my house with "Solar Paint" ...

Please build another Nuke reactor for my power...

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bowl of blood said:

i am about to shower your face in a thin film of protein nanowires

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Bughead said:

So it's just a dehumidifier like silica gel, but you can plug some anodes into it to generate a tiny (useless) amount of power? Then they try to spin it as an air-conditioner? lol

Solar-driven electrolytic water splitting is a promising means of storing renewable electricity, but the kinetic limitations of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) have impeded the deployment of electrolyzers that produce hydrogen fuels derived from water.

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Jun Yao, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, has received a five-year, $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to develop nanoscale sensors that can measure both the mechanical and electrical properties of a cell at the same time. The grant is from NSF’s Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) program.

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Fool said:

Brawndo

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Bughead said:

Sounds similar to:

[Crazy ****ers did it]Scientists have turned humidity into power by Odio - TribalWar Forums



Sounds like another desperate attempt at digging for funding/grants lol.

EDIT: Looks like this isn't his first rodeo.

UMass Amherst Engineer Jun Yao Receives NSF CAREER Grant to Develop Nanoscale Sensors to Measure Mechanical and Electrical Properties in Cells | Office of News & Media Relations | UMass Amherst



So this "Assistant Professor" is going to lead two giant research projects at the same time (on top of his existing professor duties)?

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