New Zealand could tap into a global market worth billions of dollars by using nanotechnology to develop electrical generators that are efficient at converting waste heat into electricity. <\/p>\n
Most forms of energy generation produce waste heat which scientists have tried, with only partial success, to convert efficiently into electrical energy. <\/p>\n
Thermo-electric generators convert heart, or temperature differences, directly into electrical energy using a phenomenon called the Seebeck effect. However, conversion rates are stubbornly low - generally less than 10 percent - despite extensive efforts to lift performance. <\/p>\n
Science is now turning to nanotechnology to provide a breakthrough where conventional technology has failed. <\/p>\n
A three-year project being led by GNS Science has been awarded $260,000-a-year from the Marsden Fund to use nanotechnology processes to increase energy conversion efficiencies, leading to lower energy waste and reduced greenhouse gas emissions from energy production. <\/p>\n
The project will trial a wafer-thin layer of space-age material embedded onto the surface of generator components to greatly enhance thermal and electrical conductivity. <\/p>\n
A crucial ingredient in the project is ion-beam technology where atoms are embedded into the surface of materials to form a strongly bonded layer several hundred atoms thick. This creates superior electrical and physical properties. <\/p>\n
The scientists will trial various combinations of bismuth, antimony, and zinc compounds to see which forms the most effective thin layer. <\/p>\n
There are many potential applications for this new technology, ranging from lawn mowers and outboard motors to large industrial plants and power stations. <\/p>\n
As well as researchers from GNS Science, the project includes scientists from Victoria University of Wellington and The University of Auckland and an American research organisation that specialises in industrial applications of nanotechnology. <\/p>\n
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Nanotechnology to help in electricity production<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" New Zealand could tap into a global market worth billions of dollars by using nanotechnology to develop electrical generators that are efficient at converting waste heat into electricity. Continue reading