Could the windows of your car charge the battery?
This article does not specifically mention what types of glass this will work with, or whether there is any restrictions at all, but it is an interesting thought that the windows of your car could provide electricity to power the battery or batteries of your vehicle. This would help at least one problem with solar panels: their looks. Many people would not want to drive a car that is plated with conventional solar panels. I for one don't like the look of solar panels on the sides of houses, I greatly prefer them on the roof -- solely for aesthetic reasons. According to the article, nanosilicon particles are sprayed onto glass, creating a film which generates electricity from solar radiation. If this film could be sandwiched between two layers a safety glass you'd be golden, as the article states that little transparency is lost. I think the huge glass sunroofs that are popular on cars these days would make perfect solar battery chargers.
[Source: Octillion via Renewable Energy Access]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Chris M 6:46PM (2/10/2007)
The power output of solar cells is proportional to the amount of light it absorbs and how efficient it is at converting absorbed light into electricity.
A transparent solar cell that absorbs very little light produces very little power, and would only be worthwile if they were extremely cheap.
Solar cell that absorbed too much light would interfere with vision (especially at night) and would not be allowed as a car window.
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Travis R 7:59PM (2/10/2007)
Isn't there already a company that makes windows for houses that uses this same principle? I think it's these people: www.xsunx.com. I thought it was a good idea, even if it isn't the most efficient.
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moogy 11:10AM (2/12/2007)
I would find it much more interesting is the solar power was created by the cars body.
Integrate solar cells in car paint. This would be a lot more useful then in the windows...
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