Solar power without solar cells: A hidden magnetic effect of light could make it possible
[ Scientific paper: Optically-induced charge separation and terahertz emission in unbiased dielectrics ]
Basically, this is a possible way to generate electricity directly from light. It's one of those exciting findings that may not pan out for 100 years or could prove to be impossible to harness in a useful way at the large scale.
My guess is that it will find application in the field of optical computation LONG before you are powering your house with an empty coke bottle and some duct tape. But it's something to keep an eye on closely over the next couple of years as it COULD be a game changing discovery (IF they can find materials that do not require light that is 100000000x times stronger than sunlight).
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