Harvesting Ocean Wave Energy via Magnetoelastic Generators for Self-Powered Hydrogen Production

Extracting energy from ocean waves for electrolysis, while highly desirable, poses significant challenges, especially in achieving high current generation for sustainable water splitting. This work introduces an innovative high-current ocean wave energy harvesting system, employing a self-floating magnetoelastic generator (MEG) ball network designed for autonomous seawater electrolysis and on-site hydrogen (H2) production. Leveraging the magnetoelastic effect, the MEG ball network is naturally waterproof and can generate a high current density of 0.24 mA cm-2, paired with a low internal resistance of 9 Ω at a wave frequency of 2 Hz. Its spherical design ensures exceptional mechanical durability, maintaining consistent electrical output even under extremely humid and harsh conditions. In practical applications, this MEG ball network system can continuously produce H2 at a rate of 0.76 × 10-3 mL min-1. These results underscore its potential as a viable technology for on-site seawater electrolysis and large-scale H2 production.