MIT and Harvard University Scientists had developed a way to use molecules to store solar energy that can later be used to heat homes or water. These molecules have the ability to store heat forever and be used without emitting any greenhouse gases.
The scientists have been testing their methods using a phenomenon called photoswitching. The challenge with using photoswitching is to pack molecules closely together to have a sufficient density of energy to generate heat. Through testing, the team found that a previous computer simulation of the experiment was incorrect and with a reduced number of molecules attached to a substrate of carbon nanotubes, they were able to generate a 200% increase in the amount of energy density they had originally projected.
Read more about the research using molecules to store solar energy.
