Researchers at Southeast University in China have developed a revolutionary thermoelectric cement-hydrogel composite that can generate and store electricity from heat.
Inspired by natural ion transport mechanisms, this multilayered material combines traditional cement with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel.
It converts temperature differences into electrical energy by creating a flow of ions, especially hydroxide (OH⁻) and calcium (Ca²⁺), across the layers.
This breakthrough achieves a tenfold improvement in thermoelectric efficiency compared to earlier cement-based materials, marking a major step toward self-powered buildings.
The composite can not only power sensors and smart systems directly from waste heat (like sunlight or industrial sources) but also store the energy for later use.
It promises to transform the construction industry by enabling smart, sustainable buildings that are energy-efficient and less dependent on external power.
While more work is needed to scale and test its durability, this innovation could redefine how we build and power infrastructure in the near future.
Researchers at Southeast University in China have developed a revolutionary thermoelectric cement-hydrogel composite that can generate and store electricity from heat.
Inspired by natural ion transport mechanisms, this multilayered material combines traditional cement with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel.
It converts temperature differences into electrical energy by creating a flow of ions, especially hydroxide (OH⁻) and calcium (Ca²⁺), across the layers.
This breakthrough achieves a tenfold improvement in thermoelectric efficiency compared to earlier cement-based materials, marking a major step toward self-powered buildings.
The composite can not only power sensors and smart systems directly from waste heat (like sunlight or industrial sources) but also store the energy for later use.
It promises to transform the construction industry by enabling smart, sustainable buildings that are energy-efficient and less dependent on external power.
While more work is needed to scale and test its durability, this innovation could redefine how we build and power infrastructure in the near future.
