MIT researchers are developing the new batteries and ultracapacitors we need for a green economy. |
| Finding better technologies for energy storage will be crucial as we work to switch from fossil fuels to more environmentally friendly power sources, says Schindall, a professor of the practice in electrical engineering and computer science. “When we reach the point where renewables are the main forms of energy, we’re stuck if we don’t have a place to store it for when it’s needed,” |
Battery-free LED flashlight recharges in 90 seconds |
What’s special about it? Well, the flashlight uses three LEDs, but its key component is Flashpoint Power technology, an ultracapacitor energy storage system from Ivus Energy Innovations.
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Light for Life recharges in just 90 seconds and shines at 90 lumens for 90 minutes per charge. The flashlight has three modes: bright (270 peak lumens), standard (90 lumens), and strobe, which is good for dance parties or scaring the neighbors’ dog and kids (OK, I’m kidding, but you get the picture).
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The only drawback: Light for Life costs a whopping $169.99. But 5.11 Tactical says that when you add up the cost of all those D batteries over the lifetime of a battery-powered police flashlight, it’s still a deal. And then there’s all that good karma you get for not chucking those batteries into the garbage or landfill. It’s hard to put a price on that.
Read more at news.cnet.com |
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MIT researches new batteries and ultracapacitors
