Organic Photovoltaics
Okay, I'll agree with you that it does.
Nevertheless, research into photovoltaics and solar energy has reached a point where these are definite possibilities.
What Are Organic Photovoltaics?
Though they are still in the research phase, OPVs can be made as thin flexible sheets, and as such they can be incorporated into cloth or paper.
Due to the fact that they are flexible they can be mass-produced at low cost. So another result of this advanced research could be low-cost mass-produced inexpensive solar cells.
What are Semiconductors?
But I will try to explain it in simple terms, just so you have a better idea of what we are talking about.
The following is a brief description of semiconductors are.
Semiconductors (organic or not) are materials that have either too many free electrons, or have a scarcity of electrons.
Semiconductors with too many free electrons are called "N-type semiconductors" in scientific circles.
Semiconductors that don't have enough electrons are
called "P-type". P-type semiconductors have "holes." Holes are places where there the atom "theoretically" should have an electron, but does not. (Just goes to show that reality and theory don't always match up.)
By combining materials that have these qualities, we are able to make electrical components such as transistors (which help regulate the flow of electricity).
Some semiconductors are sensitive to light when they are stuck together. It is these semiconductors that are used in photovoltaic cells. When exposed to light, a tiny electrical current is created. This is not a new discovery
But, as stated earlier, being able to create a semiconductor out of organic materials is new, and opens the door to a whole new range of possibilities.
Incidentally, computer chips are usually made out of semiconductors. So this new discovery can have some interesting applications in the field of computers. Humanized robots? Artificial intelligence? Who knows.
Bussmann FWP-40 40 Amp 700V AC/DC High Speed Semiconductor Fuse
This is an example of semiconductors in use.
Interesting Uses?
I'd be interested to see what the future holds.
If you have any ideas of possible uses or applications for Organic Photovoltaics, write them here. After all, we are only bound by the limits of our imagination! It would be
interesting to see what people can think of.
Personally, I think the world could do with a organic photovoltaic baseball cap that powers a little cooling fan attached to the cap.
My prediction:
solarstories, at 2am on September 18, 2008 predicts:
An organic photovoltaic baseball cap that powers a little cooling fan on attached to the cap
Reader predictions:
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anthony101, at 6pm on September 18, 2008 predicts:
solar powered beer coolers!
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by solarstories
Photo at AllPosters.com
I support the use of solar power, a cleaner environment, Alternative Energy, and work against Global Warming.
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