In a groundbreaking development, researchers have unveiled a novel salt battery that effectively harnesses osmotic power, a relatively new concept in ocean renewable energy. This innovative technology utilizes the difference in salt concentration between freshwater and seawater to generate electricity, paving the way for a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
The salt battery operates by separating freshwater and seawater through a semi-permeable membrane, creating a pressure difference due to the salt ions in the seawater. This pressure difference is then converted into electricity using pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) or reverse electrodialysis (RED) systems.
One of the key advantages of the salt battery is its ability to generate electricity consistently, without being dependent on fluctuating weather conditions. This is particularly important for regions with limited access to renewable energy sources, as it ensures a stable and reliable power supply. Furthermore, the salt battery is highly sustainable, as it relies on the abundant and naturally occurring salt concentration difference between freshwater and seawater.