Flexible silicon solar-cell fabrics may soon become possible

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For the first time, a silicon-based optical fiber with solar-cell capabilities has been developed that is capable of being scaled up to many meters in length. The research opens the door to the possibility of weaving together solar-cell silicon wires to create flexible, curved, or twisted solar fabrics.

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inetdog

Re: Flexible silicon solar-cell fabrics may soon become possible

RSSfeed wrote: »

For the first time, a silicon-based optical fiber with solar-cell capabilities has been developed that is capable of being scaled up to many meters in length. The research opens the door to the possibility of weaving together solar-cell silicon wires to create flexible, curved, or twisted solar fabrics.

More...

Wow! The first thought that I had on reading the whole article was that it is the solution (to the extent that one exists) to the often-discussed dilemma of how to hold and aim your solar panel while hiking (to recharge your phone as you walk.) Just make your hat out of this material. :-)

Cariboocoot

Re: Flexible silicon solar-cell fabrics may soon become possible

Get a whole suit made of it and you'll be stylin'!

inetdog

Re: Flexible silicon solar-cell fabrics may soon become possible

Cariboocoot wrote: »

Get a whole suit made of it and you'll be stylin'!

You can actually (right now!) get a fashion sweater with a flexible ~3" by 6" LCD screen attached to the sleeve.
With this fabric, the sweater could power it too.

Cariboocoot

Re: Flexible silicon solar-cell fabrics may soon become possible

But if you build yourself some electric motor rollerblades you can save money on your daily commute!

BB.

Re: Flexible silicon solar-cell fabrics may soon become possible

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
--Philip K. Dick

First published in 1968, the book served as the primary basis for the 1982 film Blade Runner.