Russia presents electricity-generating textile with infrared sensitivity
Such fabrics are suited for extreme environments, including aerospace applications
Russian researchers have developed a novel textile capable of generating electric power using light and heat. The innovation is based on photoresponsive threads made from chemically modified carbon fibre. This is reported by the official website of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.
These fibres, with diameters ranging from 6 to 10 microns, are resistant to atmospheric and chemical exposure and possess high tensile strength and elasticity while maintaining low density and a minimal coefficient of friction. Their near-zero coefficient of linear thermal expansion makes them particularly suitable for advanced electronic and material science applications.
The process involves subjecting the carbon fibre to a strong electric field, altering its conductivity from electron-based (n-type) to hole-based (p-type), enabling it to generate electrical potential under various conditions.
The research has led to the creation of two types of power generators. The first is a thermoelectric generator, which converts temperature differences between the heated and cooler surfaces of the textile into electricity.
Such fabrics are suited for extreme environments, including aerospace applications, where they can provide thermal insulation while simultaneously serving as power sources in space, where temperature gradients are significant.
The second type is a photovoltaic generator, which produces electricity when the textile is exposed to light.
According to the researchers, this breakthrough opens the door to new energy solutions for wearable electronic devices by harnessing ambient heat.
Photo: iStock
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