Electric sparks serve various purposes, such as welding, powering gadgets, eliminating bacteria, and igniting fuel in certain car engines. While they are quite useful, controlling them in open spaces can be challenging, as they tend to branch out uncontrollably, often moving toward nearby metallic objects. A new study has revealed a method for transporting electricity through the air using ultrasonic waves. This technique allows for precise control over electric sparks, enabling them to maneuver around obstacles or hit specific locations, even in non-conductive materials.
Electric sparks serve various purposes, such as welding, powering gadgets, eliminating bacteria, and igniting fuel in certain car engines. While they are quite useful, controlling them in open spaces can be challenging, as they tend to branch out uncontrollably, often moving toward nearby metallic objects.
A new study has revealed a method for transporting electricity through the air using ultrasonic waves. This innovative control over electric sparks enables them to navigate around barriers or strike designated areas, even through non-conductive materials.
“We noticed this effect over a year ago, and it took months to gain control over it, followed by an even longer period to understand it,” explains Dr. Asier Marzo, the principal investigator from the Public University of Spain.
This directional control arises because the sparks heat the surrounding air, causing it to expand and decrease in density. The heated air is then channeled by ultrasonic waves to areas with higher sound intensity, prompting subsequent sparks to travel through these lighter air zones due to their lower breakdown voltage.
“With the ability to precisely control the sparks, we can apply them to a range of fields, including atmospheric sciences, biological applications, and targeted circuit activation,” remarks Prof. Ari Salmi from the University of Helsinki.
In the past, guiding sparks required laser-induced discharges, commonly known as Electrolasers, which came with risks related to high-powered lasers and the need for exact synchronization with electric discharges. The new technique leverages ultrasound instead of lasers, making it safe for eyes and skin. Additionally, the system is compact, cost-effective, and allows for continuous operation.
“I’m thrilled about the potential of using very faint sparks to create controlled tactile feedback in the hand, paving the way for an innovative contactless Braille system,” shares Josu Irisarri, the lead author of the study from the Public University of Navarre.
The research was conducted in collaboration with experts from the Public University of Navarre (UPNA), the University of Helsinki, and the University of Waterloo, and it will be published in the Science Advances journal.
