Researchers from the University of California, USA, have developed “underwater mechanical wave carpet” – a huge network that allows to collect natural ocean energy with an efficiency of 100%.
Compared with solar energy collection of ocean energy is particularly advantageous. At the time, as one square meter surface of the earth receives 300-400 watts of solar energy, waves, splashes over one square meter of the California coast, carry a 45 kilowatt.
The high efficiency of the system related to the density of the wave energy. Scientists estimate that one square meter of new coating replaces the 150 square meters of solar panels.
“Wave carpet” is a wide rubber sheet fitted with devices that can collect energy even the slightest waves running over the water surface.
To date, the invention is in the experimental phase – scientists note that used to design tires disintegrate in salt water. Now they are looking for alternative materials, silicon, or other composites.
Researchers plan to place your system under water – then it will not have to turn off during a storm. Moreover, underwater turbines and wave devices will experience much less turbulence.
In 2016 the first scheduled full system test – then a real prototype of the device will be installed in the ocean.
