Scientists from Finnish cellphone company Nokia and researchers from Queen Mary University of London have teamed up to develop technology that uses sound to charge mobile phones. The team used what is called a piezoelectric effect, in which zinc oxide nanowires convert sound vibrations into electricity.
The scientists sprayed a liquid zinc oxide coating onto a plastic sheet, before placing it in a mixture of chemicals to help the material grow into nanorods.
The researchers currently have one prototype device capable of harnessing sound for battery power. The device is about the size of a Nokia Lumina 925 and can generate up to five volts of power using everyday sounds such as traffic, music and voices. Five volts is generally enough to charge a mobile phone.
Sound-Charged Phones
Nokia is Developing a Phone That Can Be Recharged Using Sound Waves
Trend Themes
1. Sound-charged Devices - More companies can explore the use of piezoelectric effect to charge devices using sound vibrations.
2. Nanowire Technology - The application of zinc oxide nanowires in various technology can result in sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.
3. Alternative Energy Sources - The development of sound charging technology can pave the way for more alternative energy sources in the future.
Industry Implications
1. Mobile Devices - The integration of sound charging technology can increase the sustainability of mobile devices and provide a unique selling proposition.
2. Renewable Energy - The use of piezoelectric effect in sound charging technology promote sustainability and can help the renewable energy industry.
3. Entertainment - The use of everyday sounds such as music and voices can provide opportunities for innovation and growth in the entertainment industry.