ASCENT: Developing heterogeneous integration of Air-gen technology for the ubiquitous powering of semiconductor systems

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $1,500,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The world is becoming more connected through smart devices such as fitness trackers, environmental sensors, and portable gadgets. Finding reliable ways to power them is becoming more important than ever. Today’s batteries do not last forever, can be unpredictable, and often harm the environment when they are thrown away. Other energy sources, like solar or wind, do not always work depending on the weather or location. To tackle these issues, this project aims to develop a new kind of technology termed Air-gen that can generate electricity from something all around us: the moisture in the air. Moisture in the air can carry electricity, as demonstrated by the lightning we see during a thunderstorm. This means that power can be retrieved anytime, anywhere without relying on the sun, wind, or even a battery. Moreover, this research project seeks to make the Air-gen from natural, eco-friendly materials created by microorganisms, using methods that are scalable and compatible with current manufacturing technology. The research also creates educational opportunities through collaborations with a community college and technology translation programs, aiming to engage high school students, college students, and the local community to promote the importance of science and technology. The intellectual merit of this project lies primarily in its conceptual and technological breakthroughs toward a novel form of sustainable energy, with the potential to significantly advance the vision of

Key facts

NSF award ID
2520377
Awardee
University of Massachusetts Amherst (MA)
SAM.gov UEI
VGJHK59NMPK9
PI
Jun Yao
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
OPTIMIZATION & DECISION MAKING, Artificial Intelligence (AI), SENSING & CONTROL, THERMAL TRANSPORT PROCESSES, ENERGY CONVERSION, ENERGY FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Estimated total
$1,500,000
Funds obligated
$1,500,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
10/01/2025 → 09/30/2029