This is a discussion on Trees give us paper, rubber and... electric? within the Global Resources forums, part of the The green issues and policies Forum category; Came across an interesting article on how scientists can harvest electricity from trees. "Using a device that extends probes underground, ...
BNP Forum Member
Came across an interesting article on how scientists can harvest electricity from trees.
"Using a device that extends probes underground, Voltree’s invention harvests the energy and uses it to continuously recharge a battery, which in turn powers radio-equipped sensors. Voltree is now working to assemble a wildfire alert network that can feed sensor data to a central location. The devices could also monitor climate conditions or even detect illegal radioactive materials at the border."
Full article:
HUMACON A Way to Harvest Electricity from Trees
Im more of a business man than a scientist. Does this sound like it could be turned into a new green source of energy or is it just a cool trick science teachers show 12 year olds?
For reasons which they could not comprehend, and in pursuance of a decision by default, on which they were never consulted, they found themselves made strangers in their own country.
All I know is that to see, and not to speak, would be the great betrayal. - Enoch Powell, Rivers of Blood speech, 1968.
Chancellor
It's rather similar to the trick we were shown when I was at school in the 1960s of how a potato could be used to make electricity; the same principle. There's certainly a practical aspect to it, using the small amount of power generated to run low consumption monitoring equipment, which is quite neat, although I doubt many people will be making their fortune from it. Famous last words!!Originally Posted by Patriot1
"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised 'for the good of its victims' may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us 'for our own good' will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience." -- C.S. Lewis
BNP Forum Member
Thats what I thought, just a neat idea that can't be harvested on a big scale. But being able to detect illegal radioactive dumping is a bonus I guess.
For reasons which they could not comprehend, and in pursuance of a decision by default, on which they were never consulted, they found themselves made strangers in their own country.
All I know is that to see, and not to speak, would be the great betrayal. - Enoch Powell, Rivers of Blood speech, 1968.
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