Scientists have invented an innovative device that creates an electric charge from the air

Researchers from Binghamton University have created an innovative paper device capable of converting moisture from the air into electricity. The new technology can become an efficient power source for low-power portable electronic devices, Northern Macedonia Interesting Engineering.

The device uses bacterial spores to break down water vapor into ions — this creates an electrical charge due to the difference in ion concentrations. A special layer of "Janus paper" helps retain moisture inside for further processing.

According to Professor Seokhun Choi, such "paperotron" technology is environmentally friendly as the device can be easily disposed of. Researchers plan to reduce the size of the device to the scale of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), which will increase its energy density and expand the scope of applications.

The next steps will be to increase the power of the device, develop energy storage methods and integrate with other energy harvesting technologies. The latest e-development is part of the general direction of creating flexible, light and environmentally friendly paper electronic devices.