Powerful Discovery (IMAGE) University of Alberta Caption University of Alberta researcher Thomas Thundat and PhD student Jun Liu have made a major advance in the development of triboelectric nan generators. These devices can turn small amounts of mechanical energy, like vibrations, into a steady DC power current. The nanogenerators can power small handheld devices or sensors that monitor anything from pipelines to medical implants. Credit UAlberta Engineering Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.