Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation

Powerboard Smart Technology

Xudong Wang holds a sample of the energy harvesting technology, which uses wood pulp and harnesses nanofibers. PHOTO: STEPHANIE PRECOURT

Powerboard Smart Building Technology

UW-Madison researchers have developed energy harvesting floor materials that combine fiber-based triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology with recycled natural materials, like wood pulp and cardboard fibers. Footfalls on this material generate an appreciable amount of electricity that can be harnessed for use and enable monitoring of foot traffic. Under heavy foot traffic, the potential for high power output and energy conversion efficiency make these flooring products feasible as an eco-friendly, efficient and affordable technology for green building and infrastructure.

Principal Investigator: Xudong Wang


Important Details

Pitch Deck
Tech Summary
Quick Pitch

In the News: Renewable energy flooring takes a step forward at Union South
In the News: Move over, solar: The next big renewable energy source could be at our feet
In the News: Move Over Solar: There’s New Energy Right At Our Feet
In the News: Business Insider:These wood floors could generate energy from your steps

Papers

Visitors to UW–Madison’s Union South walk across a section of floor designed and installed by College of Engineering researchers to capture the energy of footsteps and turn it into usable electricity. PHOTO: ADRIENNE NIENOW

If you are interested in licensing this technology or learning more, please contact:
Emily Bauer | 608-960-9842

If you are interested in learning more about WARF Accelerator technologies, please contact:
Greg Keenan | 608-960-9849

WARF