Researchers at the University of New South Wales’sSchool of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering successfully tested a device that converts infrared heat to electrical power. A “thermoradiative diode” power-generation device was used by the team. This technology is similar to that found in night-vision glasses. ACS Photonics published the study in May 2009.
Nicholas Ekins-Daukes (Exciton Science Associate) was the head of the research team. He said: “In late 18th and early nineteenth century, it was discovered that steam engines’ efficiency depended upon the temperature difference across them, and thus, the field of thermodynamics was created.
Infrared images of Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Credit: UNSW Sydney
Solar power is based on the same principles as solar energy. The sun provides the heat source, while a cool panel on the Earth’s surface acts as a cold absorber. This allows electricity production. When we consider the infrared radiation from Earth into outer space, the Earth is a relatively warm body. The vast expanse of space is extremely cold. “
“Using the same principles as thermodynamics, you can also generate electricity from this temperature differential: the emission infrared radiation into space.”
Rune Strandberg, a Norwegian researcher, first proposed the possibility of such an instrument. Researchers at Stanford University are now exploring other ways to capture thermal energy at night.
Although the amount of energy generated by this test is very small (roughly equal to 0.001% of a normal solar cell), it is a strong proof of concept.
Nicholas stated, “We often think of the emission light as something that consumes energy. But in the mid-infrared where we are all glowing brightly with radiant energy, it has been shown that it can be used to extract electricity.”
“We don’t yet have the miracle material to make the thermoradiative Diode a daily reality, but we did make a proof-of-principle and we are eager for the next steps.”
The team is excited to begin the next research phase in creating and refining devices that harness the power and light of the night. They also welcome industry partners.
