Nanotechnology in Thin Film Batteries

23 February 2007

Nanotechnology is set to revolutionize the world’s quest for clean, renewable energy by using thin film batteries as a storage mechanism for microgeneration. Microgeneration means that energy can be created independently on a “micro” scale, without being hooked up to the nationwide electrical grids that power up homes. Solar panels and wind turbines are the principal generators used to create the energy, which is then stored in thin film batteries for storage and usage.

From the beginning of the microgeneration process to the very end, Nanotechnology is involved every step of the way. The solar panels and wind turbines themselves contain Nanoparticles to enable them to more efficiently collect the energy and use it to generate electricity. The thin film batteries also rely on materials created using Nanotechnology, to create batteries 40 times more efficient than those currently on the market.

It should be understood that this Nanotechnology-driven solution is not, for the most part, meant to completely replace the nation’s power grid. That may occur at some point in the future, but for now the thin film batteries simply create and store DC (Direct Current), as opposed to the (AC) Alternating Current that homes use. The electricity generated supplements the home’s basic appliances, LED lighting, electronics, and can be used to charge the car battery as well.

There are tremendous social implications for microgeneration with thin film batteries created using Nanotechnology. It satisfies society’s increasing need for sustainable, renewable energy sources. Some packages are available that would provide complete homeowner independence from the electrical grid, for those who desire it. And the batteries hold their charge for 40 times longer than current batteries.

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