Solar Leaves
Posted: Wed Aug 23, 2023 10:07 am
https://www.energylivenews.com/2023/08/ ... akthrough/ has an interesting concept
Evaporative cooling sounds good, but plants have evolved to handle ground/soil water in their metabolism. Surely this device would have to be fed de-ionised water if it wasn't to get choked with salts?Researchers from Imperial College London have engineered a leaf-like solar design for heightened efficiency.
This photovoltaic leaf (PV-leaf) innovation employs budget-friendly materials, igniting the potential for next-gen renewable solutions.
Experiments reveal PV-leaves generate over 10% extra electricity compared to standard solar panels, which dissipate 70% of solar energy.
Drawing from natural leaf functions, the PV-leaf mimics transpiration – channelling water movement.
Employing natural fibres and hydrogels, it removes solar cell heat affordably