Peel-Off Solar Cells Could Mean Sun-Charging Phones

4,216 views · Published 26 December 2012 · 0:46 · Indexed 27 October 2026

Channel: Slate · 2012 · Science & Technology

Watch on YouTube

Before long, recharging your devices could be as simple as holding them up to the sun.

Stanford researchers have unveiled new peel-off solar cells—flexible energy devices that can be attached to paper, plastic, and glass surfaces alike.

The cells are placed in a bath to affix them to something, and they are removable and reusable. Researchers suggest placing them on cellphones and business cards, or using them to mimic decals on windows. They can even be used for emerging "smart clothing," textiles with built-in technological features.

More from this channel

• 0:56 Barack and the Boss: Clinton's Attack Ad

  Slate

  1,528 views · 8 May 2008

• 2:07 How To Spend Your Tax Rebate

  Slate

  849 views · 19 May 2008

• 4:37 Reviews of: Moon, The Taking of Pelham 123, and Imagine That

  Slate

  1,618 views · 12 June 2009

• 2:21 Dear Prudence: Riding Shotgun with Tipsy Pal

  Slate

  2,634 views · 29 June 2009

• 2:15 How to Save Newspapers

  Slate

  2,860 views · 10 July 2009

• 2:04 Killer Apps: Oregon Trail Revisited

  Slate

  4,120 views · 13 July 2009

• 1:50 Killer Apps: Wolfenstein 3-D

  Slate

  2,584 views · 31 July 2009

• 4:14 Reviews of: Inglourious Basterds, Post Grad

  Slate

  2,221 views · 22 August 2009