Spontaneous cyclic transport mediated hydrovoltaic energy harvesting utilizing PB-PANI infused hierarchical porous wood structures

Abstract

Water evaporation, a crucial natural process, presents significant opportunities for sustainable energy production via hydrovoltaic technology. Nevertheless, actual implementations are hindered by insufficient energy output, complex fabrication processes, limited reliability, and high costs. This research presents a Cyclic Transport-Driven Hydrovoltaic Generator (CTHG), modeled after tree transpiration, which utilizes cyclic water flow to augment charge separation, stabilize voltage output, and enhance power density. The system reduces dependence on external water supplies while guaranteeing sustained operational stability, providing a scalable and effective option for renewable energy generation. This CTHG utilizes hierarchically porous delignified wood functionalized with Prussian blue (PB) nanoparticles and conductive polyaniline (PANI) as the medium for energy generation, enhancing water movement, electrical conductivity, and ion diffusion. Under ideal conditions, the device achieves a continuous voltage of 0.75 V, approximately twice the published average, and a power density of 6.75 μW cm⁻² in deionized water. The voltage increases to 0.92 V in alkaline solutions at elevated temperatures with consistent performance observed over multiple days. Furthermore, series-connected CTHGs efficiently energize commercial devices, exemplified by illuminating an LED light with five units connected in series. This scalable, environmentally sustainable technique highlights the promise of bio-based materials for renewable energy production and wastewater reclamation, tackling significant worldwide energy issues.