LCD advertising displays in stores are becoming more commonplace – it’s yet another energy sucking aspect of an already electricity intensive modern way of life.
However, a Korean company is working towards a solution to lessen the impact of these displays with a development called Solar Cell Ink In Motion (IIM).
In addition to incorporating a thin film solar panel to power the display, Neolux makes use of electronic ink in their product. Electronic ink uses 50 to 100 times less power than liquid crystal displays.
Electronic ink is made up of millions of tiny microcapsules, which are around the diameter of a human hair. Each microcapsule contains positively charged white particles and negatively charged black particles suspended in a clear fluid. When a negative electric field is applied, the white particles move to the top of the microcapsule where they become visible to the user. This makes the surface appear white at that spot. At the same time, an opposite electric field pulls the black particles to the bottom of the microcapsules where they are hidden.
Due to the low power requirements of electronic ink, the technology is very compatible with solar power – even indoor lighting can enough to power a display. Neolux’s Solar Cell IIM will function in as little as 400 lux; which is well below the lighting level in the average department store. The price of the solar powered display is only USD 5.00 higher than their standard battery type.
There is one major drawback at this point – the display will only works up to 18 months of continuous use; around a quarter of the lifespan of an LCD screen used continuously. While the display is very thin and lightweight, this relatively short lifespan will contribute further to an already over-burdened waste stream, so further development is needed in order to lessen the environmental impact of this aspect of the Solar Cell IIM.
