Power-generating rubber could be the future

The boffins at Princeton and Caltech have come up with something which could revolutionize the future – a power-generating rubber material which has the potential to harness walking and other movements in order to charge electronic devices. This material comprises of nanoribbons that are made out of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) alongside a ceramic substance which is “piezoelectric” – in layman’s terms, it is capable of generating an electrical voltage whenever there is applied pressure. A combination of such “piezo-rubber chips” within clear silicone rubber sheets will then be able to generate electricity when flexed. Practical uses of such technology are virtually limitless, including implanting them into the body to perpetually power medical devices.