The new structure of the sponge converts solar energy into steam

Engineers at mit have developed a unique material that generates steam from sunlight.

The new structure is a sponge of two layers: a carbon foam and graphite flakes. Porous material floats on the surface of the water takes solar energy and evaporate liquid in vapor form. The brighter the light, the more steam is formed. The new material is able to convert up to 80 percent of the sunlight. In this porous sponge loses very little heat in the conversion process and can generate steam at low solar activity. How to assure the creators of the spongy structure, it can be made from inexpensive components.

One of the founders, Hadi ghasemi says: "the New structure is important for desalination, hygiene systems, and sterilization. Especially in remote areas where the sun is the only source of energy you can generate steam with solar energy, which is very useful".

Ghasemi says: the structure can be even more effective, depending on the type of materials used. "There may be different combinations of materials that can be used in these two layers, leading to higher efficiency at lower concentrations".

Source: nauka24news.ru/