Scientists Develop Smart Wallpaper That Generates Electricity from Air Humidity

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a new type of wallpaper that can capture moisture from indoor air and convert it into electrical current. According to the researchers, the innovative material could serve as a unique indoor alternative to solar panels.

The device absorbs water molecules from the surrounding air and uses them to drive the movement of ions within the material. As part of the water evaporates, an electrical potential difference forms between the wallpaper layers, generating a steady current.

At present, the technology produces enough power to run small environmental monitoring sensors and devices such as wireless keyboards.

In the future, the researchers plan to use the material across larger wall surfaces and develop household devices that can both dehumidify indoor air and generate electricity at the same time.