Vibrations in the ground are found everywhere.
Vibrations in the ground are found everywhere. They occur when cars pass by, when machines are operating, or when the earth’s crust moves. For most of us, these are invisible forces. For researchers, however, they represent something far more exciting: an untapped source of clean energy.
Instead of letting these small tremors disappear, researchers are investigating how they can be converted into electricity. This is done through technologies that respond to movement, bending or pressure, and that are able to generate small but stable amounts of electricity.
The project investigates where different vibration sources exist, how they vary, and which technologies can best convert them into energy production. The goal is to develop solutions that can be used where only small amounts of power are needed, such as for powering sensors.
Read More at: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Researcher Nikolai Helth Gaukås and his colleagues at SINTEF are catching vibrations. They believe this energy can be used where no other electricity option is available. (Photo Credit: Emma Saether)
