Generation of energy and power is a continuing issue in our modern world. Nature Nanotechnology recently published a journal article discussing the potential of a virus which can inadvertently power our electronic devices. While many people consider viruses something that makes us ill, this particular virus generates energy when stressed via vibrations or pressure, called piezoelectricity.

At the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, a harmless virus coated an electrode and, when stressed, generated sufficient energy to power on an LCD display. The potential of personal generators carried on our person is certainly not far off; generators that can hopefully produce enough energy to keep our cell phones and hand held devices charged for extended periods of time.

For more information on this virus, how it's used, and the potential, check out http://www.forbes.com/sites/eco-nomics/2012/05/15/scientists-generate-electricity-from-viruses/.

Ann Demaiter, Nanotechnology Engineering, University of Waterloo

Business Development Lead, UW_NRG