Squeezing this Slime Produces Electricity
Slime isn't just a nostalgic plaything from childhood shows anymore; it's forever stepping into the future, bucking up as sci-fi's next big thing. Researchers at the University of Guelph in Canada have whipped up some "slime" that generates electricity upon compression, providing a myriad of exciting possibilities.
These groundbreaking findings were detailed in a February 1 study published in the Journal of Molecular Liquids. Their innovative material, featuring oleic acid (a naturally occurring fatty acid in olive oil), amino acids (the proteins' building blocks), and a whopping 90% water, means it's 100% natural and safe to the human body.
What makes this green-lighted guzzle of goo so fantastic?
Erica Pensini, an environmental engineer at the University of Guelph and co-author of the study, explained, "Our bodies create tiny electrical fields to summon healing cells to an open wound. By boosting these electric fields using our new slime-inspired technology, healing times could theoretically quicken. The slime's intended application would activate through our natural movements and breathing." (Be still, our beating hearts, it's just science!)
Pensini hoped her team would create something completely harmless and applicable to everyday use. This multi-purpose slushball could theoretically be used in artificial skin to aid robot development in grasping tender objects like a beating human heart. It could also be incorporated into shoe insoles for studying human gait to enhance prosthetics or walking aids.
Their slime-fueled superheroes aren't just limited to the medical realm, though. The researchers introduced the capability for the material to generate electricity! Think recruiting Coldplay to create kinetic dancefloors during their Music of the Spheres World Tour, all while harnessing the energy generated by your dance moves!
Admittedly, more research is imperative before this slime hits the shelves at your local pharmacy, but Pensini's taking one for the team, using it as a balm for her rock-climbing hands. She said, "I'm the initial guinea pig, so why not me?"
[1] Source: University of Guelph Research Study, Journal of Molecular Liquids[2] Source: University of Guelph News Release[3] Source: ARPA-E
There you have it, the electricity-infused slime – the adaptable, innovative, and energy-generating solution for the future in medical, energy, and robotics sectors. More research will be crucial to maximizing this mysterious material's potential, so stay tuned for more sparks and shine!
In light of these discoveries, the potential applications of this electricity-generating slime in the field of physics are vast. For instance, it could contribute to the advancement of technology, perhaps aiding in the development of more efficient energy storage systems. Furthermore, as the future of science continues to evolve, this slime could play a significant role in pushing the boundaries of what we currently know.
