doi.org/10.1016/j.device.2024.100603
Credibility: 999
#Marte
Scientists are working on technologies that could help turn carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable fuels, which could be very useful both here on Earth and on Mars.
They have created a device called a thermoelectric generator, which can generate energy by harnessing temperature differences.
Thermoelectric Generators to Transform CO2:
Researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have shown that these thermoelectric generators can work even when the temperature difference is moderate.
The idea is simple: the generator is placed in places where there is a large temperature difference ” for example, between a hot surface and a cold surface.
In the lab, they did this with a hot plate and an ice bath.
If the temperature difference is at least 40°C, the generator can produce enough electricity to power equipment that converts CO” into carbon monoxide (CO).
This technology could be applied in a variety of situations, such as geothermal facilities on Earth, which use heat from underground.
But the most interesting idea is to use it on Mars!
Using the Technology on Mars:
Dr.
Abhishek Soni, one of the researchers, was excited about the idea of using this technology on Mars.
Mars is a very cold environment, and there are large temperature differences that could be used to generate power with these thermoelectric generators.
In addition, Mars has an atmosphere full of CO”, which could be turned into fuels and other useful products for a human colony.
How Does a Thermoelectric Generator Work?
A thermoelectric generator converts the temperature difference into electricity.
When placed in a place with one side hot and one side cold, it generates an electric current.
The team of scientists found that with a temperature difference of 40°C, the generator can produce enough energy to power equipment that converts CO” into something more useful.
Extreme Conditions for Biodomes on Mars:
If we ever create a colony on Mars, we would need “biodomes” ” enclosed, protected spaces where humans would live in comfortable temperatures.
Outside the dome, Mars is extremely cold, with temperatures reaching as low as -153°C.
Thermoelectric generators could be placed around the biodomes, taking advantage of the temperature difference between the warm interior and the cold exterior.
The energy generated could then be used to transform CO” from the Martian atmosphere into products such as fuels and even materials such as plastics, which would be needed to live there.
Professor Curtis P.
Berlinguette says it`s an interesting and fun way to think about how to create sustainable fuels and products on Mars.
The next step for scientists is to test these thermoelectric generators in real-world situations here on Earth to see if the idea works outside the lab.
Published in 11/14/2024 12h52
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