Flexible, new-age solar panels are inspired by yoga mats
Monday, 23 May 2011
Flexible, new-age solar panels are inspired by yoga mats
Yoga mats, like one's clothing, can be a wonderful and beautiful way to express oneself. Many enthusiasts choose to decorate their mats or select tranquil colors – like ocean blue, forest green or dove white – to help them personalize the moments of peace and relaxation that they acquire from engaging in the holistic regimen.
Recently, the Boston Globe reported that the ubiquitous yoga mat has served as inspiration for a new, high-tech solar panel that may be unveiled within the next five years. Scientists have developed a product that is flexible, efficient and compact, much like a trusty yoga mat.
Researchers from the University of Missouri, University of Colorado and Idaho National Laboratory created "nantennas," or small antennas that gather a substantial amount of energy from sunlight. The team is currently working on forming these nantennas into thin, flexible sheets that resemble yoga mats and can easily cover any structure.
So the next time you unroll your yoga mat, take a moment to appreciate its utility and efficiency while you are stretching, breathing deeply and enjoying Dahn Yoga benefits. Knowing that this tool has helped inspire new ways of saving energy and loving the Earth may help you relax that much more.
