Will we generate electricity out of thin air?

Indijski raziskovalci so ustvarili membrano, ki proizvaja elektriko iz zraka in vode. Tehnologija temelji na izhlapevanju in omogoča trajnostno napajanje majhnih naprav brez baterij ali sončne svetlobe – tudi z umazano vodo.

Bomo elektriko proizvajali kar iz zraka?

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology Indore have developed an innovative membrane made of graphene oxide and zinc imidazole that can generate electricity from air and water. The membrane forms a thin layer with microscopic channels that, when partially immersed in water, allow the water to rise through evaporation. This separates positive and negative ions, creating a voltage.

"It is a self-recharging energy source that operates silently, cleanly and sustainably," said lead researcher Prof. Dhirendra K. Rai, adding that accessibility is key for rural and remote areas.

A small piece of membrane (3 × 2 cm) can produce up to 0.75 volts. The technology is lightweight, portable, and works day or night, even with dirty water. It is suitable for powering sensors in the wild, lights during power outages, or low-power medical devices.

The membrane is stable for months, does not require sunlight or batteries, and works indoors and in cloudy weather. The research was published in the Chemical Engineering Journal.

Although it does not support the electric grid, it represents an important step towards cleaner energy sources that reduce pollution. The team sees evaporation as a natural resource that can be harnessed for a future without fossil fuels.