We’ve always associated solar energy with power we obtain from the sun, but new research is being focused on ways to generate solar energy from rain. This research involves graphene, a material made from a single layer of carbon atoms 10 times stronger than steel and 1000 times lighter than a sheet of paper!
Graphene has been able to help generate energy from rain drops. This works by extracting the salt from the water which can then be split into positive and negative ions. This is a simple chemical reaction which can be harnessed to generate power.
This is exciting news in the world of renewable energy. Even though solar panels can generate some power on cloudy days, the amount of energy harnessed is less than on sunny days. This research can potentially help scientists develop an all-weather solar cell capable of generating energy even on rainy days.
Graphene is also being used to develop a material that can absorb ambient heat and light to generate electricity. Because graphene is an ideal conduit, it can transport an energy charge much faster than many other substances, making it an excellent material from which to produce solar cells.
Researchers from the University of Kansas are looking at ways of increasing the carrier lifetime of graphene. The results of this research could lead to the production of an ultra-thin, flexible solar cell.
This is an exciting development in the world of renewable energy. Continued research into graphene as a material for solar cells is helping make solar energy more efficient. These all-weather solar cells will allow energy to be harnessed during sunshine and rain. This technology will eventually make it easier to generate electricity to power homes and businesses across the United States.
