Recycle Electricity: Is It a Good Idea to Build a Long-Lasting Device?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of recycling electricity through a long-lasting device, exploring its feasibility, implications, and potential applications. Participants examine the practicality of such devices in various contexts, including theoretical and experimental considerations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the practicality of recycling electricity, suggesting that the effectiveness depends on the specific devices and their operational state.
  • One participant argues that as long as the components are functioning correctly, recycling electricity could be feasible.
  • A clarification is provided on what "recycle electricity" means, indicating it involves using energy from one device to power another after its initial use.
  • Another participant contends that the energy collected from such recycling efforts may be negligible, rendering the idea impractical.
  • In contrast, some examples are given where small power needs could justify the recycling approach, such as in calculators and data loggers.
  • A participant reflects on a misunderstanding regarding the original intent of recycling old electronics rather than electricity.
  • One viewpoint suggests that reducing energy consumption in the first place is preferable to recycling, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of using primary batteries for small devices.
  • A speculative idea is presented about a non-contact method for recharging devices, though skepticism is expressed about the feasibility of such a system.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the practicality and effectiveness of recycling electricity, with no consensus reached on whether it is a good idea. Some support the concept under specific conditions, while others argue against its viability.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes varying assumptions about the efficiency of energy recycling and the definitions of terms used, which may affect the interpretations of participants' claims.

Smitty
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If I can recycle electricity with a device made of pieces of equipment that ware out very slowly (Years or longer) would it be a good idea to build such a device?
 
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that depends on the devices in question, the state of the devices, and how you are using them.
 
In general as long as the parts are not defective and operating correctly it should be fine
 
Welcome to PF!

What does the phrase "recycle electricity" mean?
 
"recycle electricity": After the electricity has been used for the primary purpose, say a light bulb, then using the light from the light bulb to create electricity for another purpose.
 
that would be pointless. you are collecting so little energy, its not at all worth it.
 
Well actually this is done for several things I can think of, so if the power need is small and wiring impractical/undesirable it could be useful. Examples:

Calculators
Faucets
Data loggers
 
I just realized I misunderstood your original post. I thought you wanted to recycle old electronics for a new purpose
 
Better than trying to re-use energy or materials is to use less of them in the first place. The savings are tax free, too. For all those little devices that run for years on a primary battery - keep using the batteries; they cost so little to run per day and you have true portability.

The philosopher's stone would be a non-contacting way of recharging mobile phones etc that costs little enough that you can have one in every room (every surface). Also, you need a way of reminding you to pick up the phone as you leave the room.
I really don't think that the 'charge anywhere in the room' system will ever be obtainable. Just wait until e-ink is good enough for fast, colourful displays and battery life will be a problem of the past.
 

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