Solar energy, as its name implies, is the conversion of sunlight and heat into energy. It must be operated in the presence of sunlight. However, the Institute of Nanoscience and Technology of Soochow University breaks this restriction and develops a new type of hybrid solar panel, combined with solar panels and Nano-friction generators (TENGs) allow solar panels to generate electricity on both sunny and rainy days.
Nano Friction Generators (TENGs) are based on the theory of frictional electrification, in which two different objects rub against each other, enabling the charge to transfer energy and form a voltage. Since frictional energy is used for conductors and insulators, common objects in life are clothes, Both tires and paper can be used as electrification materials.
Therefore, the team wanted to use the kinetic energy of friction between raindrops and solar energy to generate electricity, and further design a better energy harvesting system. There have also been studies in the past that want to make good use of rainwater friction, but the equipment manufactured is often complex and volumetric. huge.
Researchers at Soochow University have two transparent polymers on a solar panel, which are polydimethylsiloxane and conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS. The upper polydimethylsiloxane is a friction electrification material. First, the PEDOT:PSS polymer layer below is the common electrode of the solar panel and the nano-friction generator. This polymer not only reduces light reflection, but also enhances power generation efficiency.
When it starts to rain, the nano-friction generators will begin to operate. PEDOT:PSS materials will be responsible for the transmission of electricity to the solar panels, and the two layers of polymer are all made of transparent material, which can still obtain energy from sunlight when it is sunny.
According to the data, at present, the short-circuit current of the device is 33nA, and the open-circuit voltage is 2.14V. Although the value is not high, it proves that this concept can be practically operated and can continue to be studied. The team stated that the new device has more than the previous TENGs solar panel. More advantages, simpler design, smaller size, and easier manufacture. This research has been published in the journal "ACSNano".