GA Tech has devised a nanogenerator that derives energy from the environment to produce a direct stream of electricity. This is a breakthrough in technology with a vast range of uses.

Researchers used zinc oxide in combination with mechanical energy to create an electrical current with the potential to power electronics. First an array consisting of vertically aligned zinc oxide nanowires is constructed on a substrate. Then silicon “zig-zag” electrodes with platinum coating are used to make the nanowires flex. The nanowires are moved by mechanical energy which thereby causes an electrical current. The mechanical energy required can come from a variety of courses including vibration and possibly blood flow.

The zinc oxide used does not cause any harmful side effects or health risks. This means the nanogenerator could be used to power devices in the body. Biosensors that monitor things such as blood flow need a constant and reliable energy supply and batteries are insufficient. The integration of this technology to power medical devices is a large and much needed advancement. However, its uses extend well beyond biomedical devices. Dreams of using nanogenerators to power a variety of small, common electronic applications are in the realm of possibilities.

Current advancements are being made to optimize both the length of each nanowire and the amount of nanowires in the arrays. This will increase both efficiency and output. However, studies and research have indicated that this method is extremely reliable with consistencies similar to those of ultrasonic generators.
Specifics cited from John Toon and GA Tech at:

Toon, John. 2007. “Nanogenerator Provides Continuous Electrical Power.” GA Tech News Release.

Diesel generators are now the powerhouses behind a breakthrough in technology that will provide water in abundance for varies scenarios in society, especially for those suffering in disaster situations and military purposes. The developers, Aqua Sciences, Inc., also embody further ambitions of integrating its use into the current water systems to increase supply and efficiency.

The process involves implementing water technology to extract H2O from the atmosphere. After the water is extracted, it is also projected through purification processes to enabling it for safe human consumption.

These machines have several advantages. The process consumes minimal energy. Their portability is a well-designed asset meant to maximize its effectiveness in disastrous or undeveloped areas. They are relatively small and produce an impressive amount of vital water.

The “off the grid” system is powered by a diesel generator and the 40 foot emergency station can remarkably supply up to 1,200 gallons each day for a seven day period without being refueled. This provides enough water to satisfy 3,000 people per day. The 40 foot station is also equipped with the option to integrate a reverse osmosis module to increase production resulting in an additional 8,000 gallons per day.

In addition to the 40 foot system, there is also a smaller 20 foot station that is able to produce 500 gallons per day.

The overall output may vary depending on environmental conditions.

Consumers note that these machines also come with smaller containers for convenient distribution.

Aqua Sciences Advanced Water Technologies:
http://www.aquasciences.com/about.html

The torrential downpours, blanketing hail, and fierce winds of the hurricane season are upon us. As history repeats itself, those whom are unprepared are doomed to suffer the wrath of these devastating storms. Hurricanes like Katrina, Rita, and Wilma have taken numerous lives, destroyed many homes, and evoked utter turmoil. Countless first hand testimonies have been given from those whom unfortunately suffered the struggles of previous hurricane seasons.

Despite the overwhelming potential for these storms to completely demolish everything in their paths, still many have failed to take the initiative to protect their homes and their loved ones. Surprisingly, many stores are experiencing a decline in sales (1). It seems that people are just not taking it serious enough. Most companies are advancing their product and service availability in hopes of preventing disasters and improving on recovery time. For instance, Verizon Wireless has spent billions to advance their systems (2). They have issued informative guidelines on how to maintain communication in the case of an emergency. They have expanded their networks and invested heavily in establishing remote communication centers (2). However, on the civilian level, people need to assume a greater realization of what is at stake.

We must take time out of our busy daily lives to seek supplies, information, and devise plans in case of emergency situations. You might not think it would happen to you, but unfortunately so did many of the previous hurricane victims. There is still ample time to prepare, but one must act fast to ensure that supplies will be readily available. Waiting until the storm approaches to prepare is definitely a risky scenario.  No one wants to commute from store to store in search of the essentials in the midst of the storm’s onset. In addition, the increase in demand usually results in complete shortages on all supplies. Therefore, now is the time to get prepared for awaits us this hurricane season.

References:

1. “Tax holiday does not create retail storm.” Sun Sentinel. June 9, 2007.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/local/sfl-zcanetax09jun09,0,6524001.story?coll=sfla-business-headlines.

2. “With An Active 2007 Hurricane Season To Begin, Georgians Are Urged To Make Emergency Communication Plans.” WebWire. June 8, 2007.
http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=38642