If 2022 showed the immense potential of artificial intelligence, 2023 marked its integration as a regular tool in our daily lives. However, scientific and technological innovation This evolution has continued on different fronts, often propelled by AI systems working behind the scenes. This year, our coverage covered a variety of topics, including many revolving around sustainability, such as biological and sand-based batteries, as well as wind turbine recycling. Here is our best selection of articles from the last twelve months.
BioBatteries have arrived on the market
In recent years, we have explored the potential of electrogenic microorganisms, bacteria capable of releasing electrons during their metabolic processes. This year, we are proud to announce the marketing of the first batteries using energy released by microorganisms metabolizing the substrates of parks and gardens. According to the manufacturer, a single 7 x 7 square meter panel can generate 15 Wh/day, enough to power LED lights or IoT sensors. Read it full article here.
Heating a city with sand batteries
Beyond biobatteries, another technology that caught the attention of our readers was the first commercial sand battery, based in the Finnish town of Kankaanpää. Thanks to the low heat transfer coefficient of silicon dioxide, the main component of sand, this innovative battery can store heat from renewable sources for several months. Currently it is used to heat the city's water supply.
Recycling of wind turbine blades
Renewable energies are gradually becoming recyclable. As many wind farms approach their third decade of operation, their turbines are on the verge of retirement. While metal and concrete towers or nacelles are easily recycled, giant multi-material blades require new recycling processes. ACCIONA Energía proposed a revolutionary recycling model, transform wind turbine blades into torsion beams for a solar park in Extremadura. If this sounds interesting to you, wait until you see the new sole sneakers made from recycled wind turbine blades.
Do you like what you see? Download the PDF here
Biomimetic drones learn from maple seeds
Biomimetics is a lifelong friend of our page and one of the themes that fascinate us the most. And it seems our readers do too. This article on a helicopter drone that will act like the vainas of the semillas of arce arises at the first points of the greatest readings. Swindle a peso less than cien gramosthe device is capable of providing media viewing autonomy on time.
Biomimetic architecture inspired by termite mounds
This year, biomimicry not only boosted drone technology, but also shed light on new construction techniques to improve ventilation and cooling in buildings. To be inspired by termite mound structuresresearchers have proposed a material paving the way for buildings that “breathe” autonomously.
Biodegradable algae-based soft robots
Artificial intelligence is spearheading new autonomous robotic systems navigating hostile environments such as the ocean depths. But what happens to these robots after their life or when they are lost at sea? The researchers explored biodegradable roboticsusing calcium alginate from brown algae. This material is injected into hydrogels, forming the scaffolding of the 3D printed parts serving as the “skeleton” of the robots.
Floating farms to sustainably feed humanity
The technology introduces hydroponic crops harnessing renewable energy and desalinated seawater to meet human food needs amid climate change. THE new generation floating farms are already being tested in inland lakes in Japan and other regions, promising a sustainable food supply to coastal cities while reduce the carbon footprint of transport.
A 3D printed sensor monitoring air pollution
Amid concerns about various types of pollution, including microplastics in the oceans, urban air pollution, nicknamed the “silent killer,” remains a significant concern for researchers. A new 3D printed sensor allows citizens to assess exposure to excessive air pollution. Print files and software are open source.
To stay ahead of the latest news shaping 2024, subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page. Stay informed about the latest innovations in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, biomimicry and much more.