Could the Walls Around You Become Generators of Clean Energy?

The traditional role of walls has long been confined to providing structural support and protection. Now, a team of researchers from Southeast University in China is challenging that idea by introducing a cement-hydrogel composite capable of generating and storing electricity. Inspired by the way plant stems manage fluids and respond to environmental changes, this innovation uses temperature fluctuations — a constant feature of most environments — as a natural energy source.

At the core of this material’s function lies its bio-inspired multilayered design. By integrating hydrogel layers within the cement matrix, the material selectively manages ion movement, allowing it to convert temperature differences into usable electrical energy. This approach achieves a significant improvement over previous efforts, offering ten times the efficiency of earlier cement-based thermoelectric materials. It represents a substantial advancement in energy harvesting technologies embedded directly into infrastructure.

Unlike traditional energy solutions that rely on separate panels, batteries, or external systems, this material seamlessly integrates into the very structure of a building. It silently captures small, everyday temperature shifts, offering a low-maintenance method to supplement energy needs without altering a building’s appearance or function. Beyond generating electricity, the material’s engineered structure also offers strong mechanical performance and built-in energy storage potential, opening possibilities for powering embedded sensors, smart systems, and wireless devices within future urban environments.

Currently in the research and development phase, this cement-hydrogel composite points toward a future where smart buildings are not only more energy-efficient but also contribute actively to energy generation. By embedding energy harvesting capabilities directly into construction materials, this innovation suggests new pathways for sustainable urban growth and climate-responsive infrastructure.