Just as the cost of solar energy has been dropping precipitously, innovations sprout to accelerate the trend while improving the technology. In a recent example of biomimicry applied to solar, Oak Ridge National Lab was inspired by the moth’s eye to create an antireflective coating that increases solar conversion efficiency up to 6 percent, and by the lotus leaf to make that coating highly water repellent—essentially self-cleaning since bouncing rain drops collect dust and particles.
Moth’s eye and lotus leaf inspire more efficient, easier to maintain solar panels
More of Today's Solutions
Scientists develop unsinkable metal tubes using water-repelling technology
Engineers at the University of Rochester have developed a way to make ordinary aluminum unsinkable even when it’s punctured, submerged, or battered by rough ...
Read More8 night sky events to catch this February, from a planetary parade to the Mil...
February may be the shortest month of the year, but it more than makes up for lost time when it comes to cosmic action. ...
Read MoreHow magnesium improves immune cell capabilities
Magnesium is an essential mineral vital to many bodily functions including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, blood pressure, and immunity. Therefore, it makes sense that ...
Read MoreHow to help victims of California wildfires: a guide to supporting relief eff...
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Wildfires have once again ravaged Los Angeles County, burning tens of thousands of acres, destroying thousands of structures, ...
Read More
