Converting Microwaves into Energy

A wireless device developed by researchers at Duke university is able to convert microwaves into electricity using metamaterials, which behave differently than normal matter. The device works similarly to a solar cell, except it harvests different frequencies than a typical solar panel.


The potential for a device such as this is enormous, as it could use stray signals from satellites and appliances, maybe even use wi-fi for conversion to electricity. It could also convert sound and vibrational energy due their frequencies. One impact of the device is allowing for longer battery life, as mobile devices could charge wirelessly while not in use. This is all possible because of the new-found ability to work with metamaterials. If this device could be made marketable it would help use a lot of wasted energy and make lives easier. The original article is located here.