A team of scientists working for the US military has successfully tested the prototype of a new system for generating electricity without releasing CO2. If implemented, the new technology would be a huge asset in America’s fight against climate change.
The project, which originally focused on creating new weapons systems, builds on existing research from Europe. Several years ago, the Army partnered with the University of Chicago to develop a technology for exploiting the known physical principles.
Scientists on the project say they have demonstrated that they can release the potential energy that holds substances together in a usable form. The team successfully extracted some of this energy using a prototype system built on the premises of the University.
Source: University of Chicago
Uncontrolled energy extraction can be used to make bombs, but the researchers claim that only a small set of materials are suitable for military applications. Other materials work better for peaceful purposes. Both need a strong external input to initiate the process, similar to existing chemical power sources.
Heavy, dense materials are most economical for energy production, with lighter substances usually having less potential energy to release. For these lighter substances, the initiation process consumes more energy than the material actually releases, ruling out certain fuel options, including the hydrocarbons that release carbon dioxide.
There are a few safety concerns, because the leftover material after the process is sometimes hazardous. Researchers are working hard to develop better models to predict and contain dangerous waste-products. Proponents of the new technology point out that it creates only tiny amounts of pollution compared to fossil fuels, and none that contribute to climate change.
Engineers are working to develop the technology for widespread application, which could be deployed nation-wide within the next twenty years. Polluting fuels are currently still cost-effective, but new designs could change that equation. Congress is considering legislation directing the Department of Energy to test some of the proposals, and provide an appropriate regulatory environment for developing this clean-power breakthrough in a safe and cost-effective manner.
Happy Amazing Breakthrough Day!
Nathaniel M. Routh 