If 2022 showcased the immense potential of synthetic intelligence, 2023 marked its integration as a daily software in our every day lives. Nevertheless, scientific and technological innovation continued throughout varied fronts, typically propelled by AI methods working behind the scenes. This yr, our protection spanned numerous subjects, many revolving round sustainability, akin to organic and sand-based batteries, in addition to wind turbine recycling. Right here’s our prime number of articles from the previous twelve months.
BioBatteries reached the market
Over current years, we explored the potential of electrogenic microorganisms—micro organism able to releasing electrons of their metabolic processes. This yr, we proudly introduced the commercialization of the primary batteries harnessing the power launched by microorganisms metabolizing park and backyard substrates. In accordance with the producer, a single 7×7 sq. meter panel can generate 15 Wh/day, ample to energy LED lights or IoT sensors. Learn the full article here.
Heating a metropolis with sand batteries
Past biobatteries, one other expertise fascinating our readers’ consideration was the first commercial sand battery, put in in Finland’s Kankaanpää metropolis. Because of silicon dioxide’s low thermal switch coefficient—sand’s main part— this modern battery can retailer warmth from renewable sources for a number of months. Presently, it is employed to warmth town’s water provide.
Recycling wind turbine blades
Renewable power is progressively changing into recyclable. As many wind farms method their third decade of operation, their generators close to retirement. Whereas towers or nacelles product of metallic and concrete recycle simply, the multi-material big blades demand new recycling processes. ACCIONA Energía proposed a groundbreaking recycling mannequin, transforming wind turbine blades into torsion beams for a photo voltaic farm in Extremadura. If that sounds attention-grabbing, wait until you see the brand new sneakers that includes soles crafted from recycled wind turbine blades.
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Biomimetic drones studying from maple seeds
La biomimética es una vieja amiga de nuestra página y uno de los temas que más nos fascinan. Y parece que a nuestros lectores también. Este artículo sobre un dron helicóptero que gira como las vainas de las semillas de arce se aupó a los primeros puestos de los más leídos. Con un peso inferior a cien gramos, el dispositivo es capaz de ofrecer una autonomía de vuelo cercana a la media hora.
Biomimetic structure impressed by termite mounds
This yr, biomimicry did not solely enhance drone expertise but additionally illuminated novel building methods for improved constructing air flow and cooling. Drawing inspiration from termite mound structures, researchers proposed a cloth paving the way in which for buildings that autonomously “breathe.”
Biodegradable mushy robots from seaweed
Synthetic intelligence is spearheading new autonomous robotic methods navigating hostile environments just like the ocean depths. However what occurs to those robots after their lifespan or when misplaced at sea? Researchers explored biodegradable robotics, using calcium alginate from brown seaweed. This materials is injected into hydrogels, forming the scaffolding for 3D-printed items serving because the robots’ “skeleton.”
Floating farms to sustainably feed humanity
Expertise introduces hydroponic crops harnessing renewable energies and desalinated sea water to handle human meals wants amid local weather change. The next-gen floating farms are already present process trials in inland lakes in Japan and different areas, promising sustainable meals provides to coastal cities whereas lowering transportation carbon footprints.
3D-printed sensor monitoring air air pollution
Amid considerations about varied forms of air pollution, together with microplastics in oceans, metropolis air air pollution—termed the “silent killer”—stays a major focus for researchers. A new 3D-printed sensor permits residents to gauge publicity to extreme air air pollution. Each the printing recordsdata and the software program are open supply.
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