An international team of researchers has created the physical basis for sensors and microchips without batteries. The scientists use a special quantum effect that converts alternating current signals from the environment directly into usable direct current.
An international team of researchers led by Professor Dongchen Qi from the Queensland University of Technology and Professor Xiao Renshaw Wang from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore investigated new ways to generate energy. The scientists want to specifically manipulate a special quantum effect by exploiting subtle features such as defects and internal vibrations in advanced materials. According to the study, these findings could enable the development of smaller and more efficient technologies in the future.
The focus of the investigation is the so-called non-linear Hall effect (NLHE). In contrast to the classic Hall effect, this phenomenon allows alternating current signals from the environment to be directly converted into usable direct current. This process works without the use of conventional diodes or other bulky components.
How do devices generate energy without a battery?
According to Dongchen Qi, this effect could theoretically lead to sensors or microchips being operated without batteries in the future. Instead, the devices would obtain the energy they need directly from their immediate surroundings. However, the researchers emphasize that a deep understanding of the internal processes of materials is the necessary prerequisite for the design of such future devices.
The team used the topological insulator Bi for their experiments2Te3which is known for its unusual electronic behavior. An important observation of the study is that the nonlinear Hall effect in this material remains stable even at room temperature. This is seen as a promising feature for practical application in future everyday electronics.
The researchers also discovered that both the magnitude and direction of the voltage generated depend on temperature. At low temperatures, tiny imperfections in the material determine the flow of electricity. As the material heats up, vibrations within the crystal lattice take control and cause the electrical signal to reverse.
Self-powered sensors and faster mobile networks
The results of this work were published in the specialist publication Cell. According to the researchers, insights gained could support the use of self-powered sensors and wearable technology in the future. An application in ultra-fast components for next-generation mobile networks would also be conceivable.
The researchers’ goal is to transform quantum effects from an abstract theory into practical support for technological developments. The team sees their work as an important step towards increasing the efficiency of electronic systems in the long term.
Nevertheless, the actual implementation into market-ready products remains a task for future research and engineering projects. The study provides the physical basis for future innovations in the area of sustainable energy supply.
Also interesting: