Bubble

Vision & problem statement

Climate change and global energy crisis requires the use of sustainable methods of energy generation rather than from fossil fuels. So, it is vital to develop efficient energy harvesting techniques. The major driving force is the huge release of waste energy (like exhaust gasses) by industries. What if it was possible to generate energy out of the flow of gasses? That is precisely the concept of a theoretical bubble column power generator (BCPG). We aim to create and optimize a working model that can be used to generate ‘excess’ energy out of inevitable movement of gasses in industry processes.

Our solution

The BCPG is a novel concept that uses multiphase flow phenomena and Faraday’s law to generate electricity. Magnetic nanofluids are used, containing dispersed magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). When placed under an external magnetic field, the MNPs align themselves to this field. Therefore, when a stream of bubbles is made to pass through, it disturbs the MNP alignment and according to Faraday’s law, emf is induced. So, this can be converted into a technology to gain energy out of unavoidable movement of gasses. There has not been much research into this domain or successful implementation due to its complexity, making it unique.

About the team

We are an interdisciplinary team consisting of 5 second year engineering students from chemical, electrical and applied physics departments. So, we have a knowledge background in chemistry and physics which is essential for the successful implementation of this solution. All of us are passionate about science and applying our academic knowledge to make a difference in society. That brings us together.

One-liner that describes your team

Kindled by science, driven by passion!

Artist Impression