Inspired by the classic drinking bird toy, scientists have developed an engine that efficiently converts energy from water evaporation into electricity to power small electronics. The device produces ...

Closing in on the theoretical maximum efficiency, devices for turning heat into electricity are edging closer to being practical for use on the grid, according to new research. Closing in on the ...

James Gibert, associate professor of mechanical engineering, and Hongcheng Tao, postdoctoral researcher, observe their test apparatus as it generates an electric charge by rubbing two surfaces ...

When two materials come into contact, charged entities on their surfaces get a little nudge. This is how rubbing a balloon on the skin creates static electricity. Likewise, water flowing over some ...