New invention harvests static energy from waste polystyrene to produce electricity

RMIT harvests power from polystyrene using static electricity.

: Researchers at RMIT and Riga Technical University devised a way to generate electricity from polystyrene's static energy. The invention involves layers of polystyrene that create static electricity when air flows over them, generating voltages up to 230V. It could reduce energy consumption in systems like air conditioning by 5%. The technology is being patented and seeks commercial partners.

Innovators from RMIT University in Australia and Riga Technical University collaborated to produce electricity by harnessing static energy from waste polystyrene. This endeavor aims to repurpose the 25 million tons of polystyrene produced and mostly wasted each year through a method that generates electricity from the static charge that occurs when air interacts with thin layers of polystyrene.

The thin patches generate voltages similar to household levels but with lower wattage, potentially increasing if more layers are used or in turbulent air conditions. The researchers highlight the durability of polystyrene, which, while damaging to the environment due to its resistance to degradation, serves to ensure the device's longevity and stable performance.

Practical applications for these devices include reducing air conditioning energy needs by 5% and providing energy in public areas like underground walkways. The research also contributes to understanding static electricity at nanoscale levels, with RMIT's Dr. Peter Sherrell noting the invention's potential impact as they seek commercial partners for further development.

RMIT Universitystatic electricityElectronics