Friday, March 4, 2011

Technology- the all-new stretchy solar cells

Stretchy-solar-cell-600x400

This is a stretchable solar cell. It can withstand stretching up to 30% when pulled from both ends. This could lead to robotic skin that are durable and can pick up sensory details from the environment.The device's electrode is made from a unique liquid metal called eutectic gallium-indium, which conforms to a surface as it lengthens and relaxes. "Eutectic" refers to a mix of elements or compound that remains liquid at lower temperature than either of its components does alone.

This is good as solar cells eliminate the need for a battery cell or charging. Also, its stretchability is good as it can withstand damage from wear and tear like scratching, grazing... this is not commercially available yet, but I think it will be very useful when it comes out. I think it can be used for:

- Robots in space
- Shopping centre walls
- Cars

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