Scientists in Ireland have developed an environmentally friendly technology that converts body heat into energy. This innovation aims to increase energy efficiency in a wide range of areas from wearable devices to industrial waste heat.
Scientists from the University of Limerick in Ireland have discovered the potential to convert body heat into energy. Our bodies, which produce a significant amount of heat in our daily lives without realizing it, release most of this heat into the atmosphere. However, new research allows the development of a promising technology for converting this waste heat into energy.
ENERGY PRODUCTION FROM BODY HEAT The goal of the research is to produce devices that can collect body heat and store this heat as energy. These devices can provide a continuous energy source for wearable technologies such as smart watches, fitness trackers and GPS. In this way, these devices can work for longer periods of time or be equipped with continuous energy. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
The basic technology used in converting body heat into energy is the thermoelectric effect. Thanks to this effect, electrical potential can be obtained when a temperature difference occurs. However, traditional thermoelectric materials contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Researchers at the University of Limerick have developed environmentally friendly and safe thermoelectric materials using lignin-based materials obtained from wood products. Lignin is a natural substance that occurs as a by-product in the paper industry. These materials allow energy to be produced from waste heat at low temperatures. WASTE HEAT STORAGE In addition to converting waste heat into energy, storing this energy is also an important step. Supercapacitors are devices that can charge and discharge energy rapidly. A team at the University of Limerick has developed lignin-based supercapacitors, making the technology eco-friendly. These new supercapacitors have huge potential to increase energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The discovery could be a big step not only for wearable technology, but also for environmentally friendly solutions by converting industrial waste heat into energy.
