Researchers develop membrane that can generate power, clean waterBy Sam Garcia / Staff writer, with CNAA research team at National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST) has developed a thin membrane dubbed the “black magic carpet” that uses solar and wave energy to generate electricity and purify water. A research team from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology pose with their invention in an undated photograph. The multifunctional graphene membrane can evaporate water with solar energy, generate electricity, degrade pollutants and clean itself, Hung said. When exposed to sunlight, the membrane converts seawater into clean water through evaporation and desalination, Hung said. Meanwhile, waves or wind trigger its piezoelectric structure to generate electricity, allowing it to supply both water and power in remote, offshore or drought-prone areas, he added.
