About This Project

Hygroelectricity is a promising energy source based on charge separation from water molecules. Building on recent research, we study materials and geometries for hygroelectric cells to generate DC power. Our latest challenge is developing cells to power nautical signaling using seawater. With your support, we seek to apply hygroelectricity’s principles to create clean, sustainable ocean energy solutions.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Hygroelectricity is an emerging field that explores how charge separation in water molecules enables energy generation from humidity. Recent research shows that electrified water interfaces can produce electricity, hydrogen, and hydrogen peroxide at room temperature. Inspired by these findings, we aim to develop hygroelectric cells powered by seawater for nautical signaling in remote areas. This technology could provide sustainable energy for navigation aids, monitoring buoys, and offshore communication. By optimizing materials and geometries, we seek to turn hygroelectricity into a practical energy solution for ocean-based industries and coastal communities. With your support, we can advance clean, renewable energy and pioneer new ways to harness water’s power.

What is the significance of this project?

Hygroelectric technology presents a viable alternative to solar and wind energy generation and can also function as a complementary power source. By capturing energy from ambient humidity, it provides a sustainable solution in environments where conventional renewables are less effective.

This innovative approach supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) by advancing clean and accessible energy solutions. Its potential is particularly strong in marine environments, where energy generation from seawater could power both surface and submerged devices. Unlike solar energy, which is ineffective underwater, hygroelectricity offers a continuous and reliable power source for nautical signaling, autonomous ocean monitoring systems, and underwater communication devices.

Our research focuses on optimizing hygroelectric cells to enhance energy production from seawater, making it a viable and sustainable solution for powering marine-based technologies.

What are the goals of the project?

The goal of this project is to develop a nautical signaling system powered by hygroelectric energy, ensuring continuous operation in marine environments. Using seawater as an energy source, this technology can power surface and submerged devices, where solar energy is ineffective.

We will develop and test hygroelectric cells to assess feasibility, efficiency, and durability. Our research includes:

1) Material Optimization – Testing conductive materials and cell geometry to enhance charge separation in saltwater.

2) Lab Performance – Simulating salinity, temperature, and water flow, collecting real-time data with a custom datalogger.

3) Field Testing – Evaluating hygroelectric cells in a marine environment.

4) Comparative Testing – Benchmarking against solar power as an alternative or complementary system.

This project aims to provide a sustainable energy alternative for offshore navigation, marine monitoring, and underwater communication.