Over the years, Scott and Julie Brusaw have been dedicated to developing solar roads, with a vision of replacing traditional asphalt with solar panels that can power entire communities. Now, they're taking their first real step forward: a 3.6 x 11 meter solar parking lot in northern Idaho. This project is funded by the U.S. Federal Road Administration, which has provided $750,000 to support the initiative. The installation marks a critical phase in proving the concept's viability. According to Scott Brusaw, "We plan to invite company executives to visit and show them how the system works—how energy flows directly into our lab and powers the building."
Researchers are aiming to create a versatile solar road that goes beyond just generating electricity. The design includes a transparent, durable top layer embedded with solar cells, LED lights for road markings, and heating elements to melt snow and ice. Beneath this, an electronic layer manages lighting, communication, and energy distribution. The bottom layer disperses excess energy to nearby homes and businesses, such as electric vehicle charging stations. Additionally, there are drainage channels along the edges to collect and filter runoff.
While ground-mounted solar panels may not be as efficient as rooftop installations due to fixed angles, Brusaw points out that the surface area available on roads is significantly larger, making it more scalable. He estimates the cost could be three times higher than traditional asphalt, though he hasn’t done a full cost comparison yet.
One of the most exciting possibilities is that these solar roads could eventually pay for themselves by generating energy for streetlights, rest areas, and even charging stations. In the future, vehicles might be charged while driving over the road. For now, the team’s focus is on testing the parking lot and preparing for commercial production. If successful, the first solar roads and parking lots could soon appear in remote, cold regions. A highway that can clear snow and ice would be especially valuable in winter, offering both practical and environmental benefits.
The air, which is drawn in by the motor of a heat gun, is electrically heated. The desired temperature can be set to between 100 to 600 and can be maintained electronically, independent of the required are flow rate. Various possible applications include thawing, drying, tinning, sharping, setting and removal of old coats of paint and staring adhesive processes.
Hot Gun,Electric Hot Air Gun,Hot Air Gun,Heat gun
AWLOP CO.,LTD , https://www.awlop.com