Georgia Tech Unveils Prototype Nanogenerator

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have created a working prototype nanogenerator capable of generating as much as 4 watts per cubic centimeter of continuous direct current. The generators are green (to use), drawing power from natural motion in the surrounding environment. They are based on non-toxic chemicals and should be safe for use in biomechanical implants, but that's not their only potential use. From the article: "If you had a device like this in your shoes when you walked, you would be able to generate your own small current to power small electronics," Wang noted. "Anything that makes the nanowires move within the generator can be used for generating power. Very little force is required to move them."

Who is John Galt?

[superwiz]

Isn't this essentially his engine? Never thought that piece of science fiction would come to life.

Re:Even though...

[DoofusOfDeath]

The political situation in many countries makes me concerned for the future, nanotechnology gives me hope that humanity is still progressing in its development.

It seems to me that this technology makes humans more powerful, but not better. If this technology would only fall into the hands of persons who are well-intentioned, well-informed, and intelligent, that would be a good thing. But I think technology in general empowers both good and evil acts. So I'm not sure that advancing technology is clear-cut progress.

Don't get me wrong - when I'm in the hospital, I certainly want advanced tech. And when my car crashes, or my home needs power, ditto. But some former citizens of Hiroshima an Nagasaki probably have somewhat mixed feelings on the issue.

How little power?

[l8f57]

Very little force is required to move them.
Only about 4watts/cm2

And what does it cost?

[BlueParrot]

Yea, and there are devices capable of generating electricity from just the wind, or sunlight, or tidal waves. But they are not competitive due to the high price.

What would be interesting in this article would be:

a) What would they cost compared to a NiMH battery?
b) How long would they last?

This is why medical applications is probably the are where this is most interesting. In medicine you often want very small long-lasting power sources that doesn't require surgery to replace. Don't expect to power your house with these things. It will almost certainly be orders of magnitude cheaper to just make sure your house is properly insulated (at least if you live in a country as cold as I do ).