Researchers at the Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) in Haifa are exploring a way to overcome one significant shortcoming of solar power. The research team, headed by Professor Avner Rothschild and doctoral student Yifat Piekner, is looking at hematite, an iron oxide chemically similar to rust. It could be used to convert solar energy into hydrogen, thereby potentially solving the problem of how to store the power produced.
Quote: “While these two types of data have been measured together previously, this is the first time they have ever been examined separately. The separated measurements gave the researchers a better understanding of the efficiency of the materials used for the conversion of solar energy into hydrogen or electricity, which will pave the way for future breakthroughs in the field.”
Sources: Wikipedia (introduction),The Jerusalem Post (introduction and quotation)
Learn more about solar power in Israel from Wikipedia. ►
Read “Researchers work to make solar energy more efficient” ►
Read “Israel aims to become world leader in use of solar energy” ►
Photo: The Jerusalem Post
We welcome your comments. Click here.