We can also concentrate electromagnetic fields--the exact opposite of what the cloak does--which might be valuable in energy-harvesting applications. With a suitable metamaterial, we could concentrate light coming from any direction--you wouldn't need direct sunlight. Right now we're trying to design structures like this. If we could achieve that for visible light, it could make solar power more efficient.
March 12, 2007
Other uses for metamaterials
We can also concentrate electromagnetic fields--the exact opposite of what the cloak does--which might be valuable in energy-harvesting applications. With a suitable metamaterial, we could concentrate light coming from any direction--you wouldn't need direct sunlight. Right now we're trying to design structures like this. If we could achieve that for visible light, it could make solar power more efficient.
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4 comments:
The use of metamaterials for energy production seems to be a shoe in! I was wondering if it would be possible to create a metamaterial that bends almost all ambient energy including Terahertz... something like that could really help the worlds energy supply.
BTW, Brian have you had a chance to check out the STAIF 2007 papers? A lot of breakthrough research is being conducted behind the scenes! China is on track to be the first to harness the power of HFGWs(High Frequency Gravity Waves)for propulsion, communication, and energy production.
http://www.americanantigravity.com/documents/STAIF/STAIF-Baker-Chinese-HFGW-Program-2007.pdf
You may also want to check out the work of Dr. Fabrizio Pinto who is currently working on nanotechnology to exploit the vacuum.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2620967619525190244
Is there an online source for viewing the STAIF 2007 papers ?
In terms of using metamaterials to enhance energy capture, we have to be able to do it in a cost effective way. This (cost effectiveness) could be an issue now as we learn to make metamaterials and where using them is at the edge of our knowledge. In should not be an issue as we transition to better nanoscale control and molecular nanotechnology.
I would like to see more solid proof of gravity control/shielding and for vacuum energy. Clever uses of more mundane non-controversial physics (laser mirrors) are more easily projected.
Normally the papers cost money to acquire, however American Antigravity owner was at this year's STAIF so he has many interviews with the presenters and write-ups, as well as a few recordings of the presentations. So got to http://www.americanantigravity.com
and look at the video clip section and feature articles for the last 3-4 days and you should find most of the material.
Also this is probably the best write-up because it includes small descriptions on each of the presentations(related to gravity and energy research):
http://www.americanantigravity.com/articles/669/1/STAIF-2007-Conference-Minutes/Page1.html
Hope this helps!
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