What was considered pure science fiction a few years ago in Back to the Future 2 has become reality, thanks to researchers at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia in Spain. They created a miniature version of the mythical AMC DeLorean, renamed “DalH2Orean” that runs on aluminum (Al) and water (H2O) alone.
With a range of 40 minutes and top speed of 30 km/h, the car is powered by aluminum tabs that are usually found on soda cans. These are inserted into a tank where they enter into contact with a sodium hydroxide solution. The combination of these elements creates a chemical reaction that causes the aluminum to disintegrate, which produces the energy needed to power the car.
The researchers say the combustion process they’ve developed could reduce the manufacturing cost of a vehicle by 800 euros (around CDN$ 1,200), which could translate into increased profits for manufacturers and savings for consumers, if the technology were to be used on a mass-production scale. The method also has the advantage of not producing any CO2.
The Spanish researchers are just starting to explore the possibilities of this technology, and will now attempt to apply it to a small car.
Source : Slate
With a range of 40 minutes and top speed of 30 km/h, the car is powered by aluminum tabs that are usually found on soda cans. These are inserted into a tank where they enter into contact with a sodium hydroxide solution. The combination of these elements creates a chemical reaction that causes the aluminum to disintegrate, which produces the energy needed to power the car.
The researchers say the combustion process they’ve developed could reduce the manufacturing cost of a vehicle by 800 euros (around CDN$ 1,200), which could translate into increased profits for manufacturers and savings for consumers, if the technology were to be used on a mass-production scale. The method also has the advantage of not producing any CO2.
The Spanish researchers are just starting to explore the possibilities of this technology, and will now attempt to apply it to a small car.
Source : Slate