Researchers in MME have developed a device that generates enough energy to power a calculator, using a versatile food—walnuts.
PhD student Nazmul Hossain got the inspiration to test the use of nuts for energy while eating a walnut. He then examined the shell underneath a microscope and found that the nut’s internal system was structured in a way that could transport water and nutrients.
The research team used a small device called a water-induced generator (WEG), which produces electrical energy as water evaporates, and by connecting 4 WEG units, made up of electrodes, water droplets, wires, and, of course, the nut, the Waterloo team was able to generate enough electricity to power a calculator.
Hossain is supervised by Dr. Norman Zhou in mechanical and mechatronics engineering and Aiping Yu in chemical engineering.
Learn more about the discovery in How to generate green energy using nut waste on Waterloo News.
Plus, see the video coverage on CTV News.