Virus used to create electricity

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory scientists have successfully discovered a way to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy using a harmless virus.

Virus acts as tiny generator to produce electricity

Let me define a term.

Piezoelectricity : 

 It is the accumulation of a charge in a solid in response to mechanical stress.

The scientists have harnessed the piezoelectic properties of the virus to create a system in which a LCD panel glows upon a finger tap on the virus film.

Thus, generators in future can be as thin as a film.

 

A little historical background:

 

Piezoelectric effect was discovered in 1880. However, the materials which are used to make the devices which work upon the piezoelectric effect are in general toxic and difficult to work with.

The M13 bacteriophage, which has been employed to use by the scientists only attacks bacteria and is benign to people.

Proposed uses:

• Imagine charging your mobile as you walk, with the generator fit to the sole of your shoe!
• Shutting a door or climbing stairs can produce electricity.
• Typing on the keyboard can produce electricity!

 Infact, any of the myriad everyday vibrations can be utilized to create energy by this innovative system.

Image credit: http://newscenter.lbl.gov
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