10 February 2010
Changing the shape of consumer electronics
Composites have found use in many applications over the years, but they have always been at the exotic end of the spectrum – airframe components, Formula One brake disks and so on – where cost isn't a major factor.
Now, it appears that composites have the potential to play a role in consumer electronics – a world where cost is everything. But, interestingly, these materials will not just provide physical strength, as they have in the past; they may also be able to store electrical energy.
Researchers at Imperial College say that, for example, a laptop housing made from its composite could store enough charge that batteries wouldn't be needed.
Such a development, should it come to fruition, could literally change the shape of consumer electronics products.
Author
Graham Pitcher
Supporting Information
This material is protected by Findlay Media copyright
See Terms
and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the
sales team.