Researchers edge closer to harnessing lasers for efficient mobile phone powering
In a groundbreaking development, researchers at the University of Ottawa have been working on a new laser power converter designed to transmit electricity over long distances, even in harsh environments. This innovative technology, which uses multi-junction converters, promises to revolutionise telecommunication networks, particularly in remote and challenging locations.
Multi-junction converters significantly improve electricity transmission by enhancing the efficiency and voltage output of converting laser light into electrical power. These devices achieve this by stacking multiple semiconductor junctions, each optimised to absorb different parts of the laser spectrum, resulting in a more efficient capture and conversion of photon energy compared to single-junction devices.
This architecture offers several key advantages. For instance, higher conversion efficiency can be achieved, with multi-junction converters reaching efficiencies above 50% (e.g., 53% efficiency reported in breakthrough laser energy beaming applications). This means more of the transmitted photonic energy is turned into usable electrical power rather than lost as heat or unused wavelengths.
In addition, increased voltage and power output are facilitated by combining multiple junctions. These converters generate higher voltages and power densities, enabling better power transmission capability over long distances.
Moreover, multi-junction designs optimise chemical potentials and bandgap configurations in layered semiconductors, which improves device performance even at elevated receiver temperatures or under conditions where single-junction cells would degrade.
For remote and extreme environments, such as isolated locations or harsh climates where deploying traditional power lines is impractical or costly, multi-junction photonic power converters enable wireless energy transfer with minimal losses over long distances by converting directed laser beams into electricity efficiently at the receiving end. This capacity supports robust, scalable, and energy-efficient power transmission without reliance on extensive physical infrastructure, overcoming terrain and weather-related challenges.
The SUNLAB team and their colleagues have published their developments in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science. In their research, they were able to produce 2 volts of electricity at its maximum point with over 53% efficiency using the multi-junction design.
The potential applications of this technology are vast. It could improve power to high voltage and monitoring sensors for smart grids without the risk of lightning faults. In addition, it could reduce sparking risks in hazardous environments and potentially transmit power and data simultaneously to remote devices on existing fibre optic infrastructure.
Furthermore, the researchers mention potential applications of this technology in space, such as powering drones, satellites, and lunar vehicles. The modern world is surrounded by numerous electronic devices and their associated cables and charging accessories. This new technology could significantly reduce the need for physical infrastructure, making power transmission more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Originally published by Cosmos as "Scientists closer to efficiently powering phones with a laser", this development marks a significant step towards wireless, long-distance electricity transmission in remote and harsh locations. The use of multi-junction converters enhances photonic power converters by maximising the electrical output from laser energy, increasing efficiency and voltage, and improving resilience in challenging environmental conditions, directly benefiting long-distance electricity transmission in remote and harsh locations.
This innovative use of multi-junction converters in photonic power converters increases the efficiency and voltage output, potentially revolutionizing both science and technology by enabling wireless, long-distance electricity transmission, especially in remote and harsh locations. For instance, these devices could facilitate the powering of satellites, drones, and lunar vehicles in space, reducing the need for physical infrastructure and making power transmission more efficient and environmentally friendly.
