A team at the China Academy of Launch Veichle Technology is testing a chip that turns the heat of hot water into electricity to recharge smartphones or other small devices
It’s safe to say: they’ve made a hot water discovery in China. A team of researchers from the China Academy of Launch Veichle Technology is testing a thermoelectric chip capable of transforming the heat of water into electricity. The idea is to install this thermoelectric circuit on the cap of a water bottle or small thermos and use the heat from the water inside to recharge small electrical devices. Researcher Sheng Jian explained that 500 milliliters – half a liter – of boiling water is enough to provide 30 minutes of charging to low-powered electronic devices. In this way, hot water could provide charging for smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, cameras and even PCs. The idea of using a thermoelectric chip to charge devices itself is not new. In fact, this technology is used by astronauts during space missions. The novelty of the Chinese study lies in the attempt to “extend” this aerospace technology to everyday life.
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The chip to recharge your smartphone with hot water
One of the strengths of the chip to recharge the smartphone with hot water is environmental sustainability. The system is totally green and uses a 100% renewable energy source. In addition, the chip produces energy at low voltage and therefore does not run the risk of short-circuiting. Chinese researchers are looking for a way to produce this thermoelectric chip at low cost. This way, the technology could spread widely at a very affordable price. For example, the China Academy of Launch Veichle Technology would like to put on sale a water bottle with a smartphone charging system at a price of 150 Yuan (about $23).
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