Can Smart Bricks store energy?

The researchers have developed a method to make or modify “smart bricks” that can store energy until required for powering devices. The method converts bricks into a type of energy storage device called a supercapacitor.

Can bricks save energy?

To unleash their energy storage potential, the researchers said they capitalized on bricks’ natural structure. “We took advantage of what bricks offer, and what they offer is a porous network and a very strong material,” D’Arcy said.

Can bricks be used as energy storage devices?

Now, chemists have discovered new potential in these ubiquitous building blocks: Through a series of reactions, scientists have shown that conventional bricks can be transformed into energy storage devices powerful enough to turn on LED lights. The findings were published Tuesday in the scientific journal Nature Communications.

Could bricks be a green energy solution?

Still, scientists see potential in the bricks as a possible green energy solution. Whether it’s massive “farms” of solar panels or home rooftop installations, solar power continues to grow rapidly as an affordable and clean energy source. But storing the power from the sun when it’s not shining is one of its challenges.

Why are solar wall glass bricks so popular?

The ability to integrate clean energy generation into commonly used building materials could create power without compromising the local architectural vernacular. This idea was key to the design of solar wall glass bricks, developed by University of Exeter spin-off company Build Solar.

Can bricks hold electricity?

Bricks have been prized by architects for their aesthetic appeal and capacity to store heat, but using them to hold electricity has never been tried before, D’Arcy said. To unleash their energy storage potential, the researchers said they capitalized on bricks’ natural structure.