Scientists discover diamonds can create electricity

Aug 31, 2026 Last reply: 1 day ago 5 Replies

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Scientists discover diamonds can generate electricity Date: August 31, 2026 Source: The University of Hong Kong Summary: Diamond was thought to be incapable of producing electricity through mechanical deformation, but ultrathin flexible diamond membranes have now shown a strong and repeatable piezoelectric effect. The unexpected discovery could open the door to diamond-powered sensors, tiny energy systems, and self-powered medical implants.


It must be a small effect if it hadn't been noticed yet. What's wrong with the usual -far more effective- piezo- elecrics that could motivate to choose this one?

Jeroen Belleman

It’s probably wrong anyway. If diamond were piezoelectric, silicon would be too. No way that would have gone unnoticed.

Cheers

Phil Hobbs

Are piezos OK for implants?

Are there any /pure/ elements with a confirmed piezoelectric effect?

That depends on more than what they're made of. Let them come up with a useful sensor or power generation application, and we'll see.

Jeroen Belleman

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