Mobile Phones with solar energy

Recent advances in nanotechnology have made possible the manufacture of flexible solar cells and low cost. Till the point that soon mobile phones may be recharged with solar energy

According to MIT Technology Review, scientists Konark Technologies in Lowell, MA, have invented a new form of solar cell which are composed of thin strips of plastic about 10 cm. by 5cm (similar to the videotape) that can convert light into electricity. By joining a few of these strips, you can generate power capable of running a small fan.

Until now, the solar panels require expensive and complicated silicone. The great advantage of this new technological advance is that the production of this new class of solar tape costs a lot less (less than half) and is much easier. The method of manufacturing process is more akin to a traditional printing process and highly complex production of solar energy.

As new cells weigh less and are more flexible, can be introduced into all types of surfaces, including laptops and mobile phones. When mixed with car paint, solar cell could be used to recharge the car battery of the future: hybrid cars, which in turn would reduce the amount of fuel consumed by these cars. In the long run even this type of solar cells could cover entire buildings, providing electricity to all its occupants.

It is still unknown whether one day solar cells are efficient enough to compete with other energies such as nuclear, wind or coal. But the new type of solar cells for the first time makes this goal is achievable. Time will tell whether this new, thanks to technological advances, solar energy, eventually ending on the alternatives

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