MIT boffins have developed a parabolic collector which concentrates sunlight so intensely it can melt steel.

Despite the fact they are fairly simple to use, parabolic collectors have not been developed much as alternative energy sources. But the MIT boffins have worked out a way that they can make them super-efficient.

They think their cunning plan will result in a lightweight, inexpensive device that can provide solar power to remote regions.

The 12-foot dish is made of aluminium tubing with mirrors are attached to it.

It focuses enough solar energy at its focal point to melt solid steel. When pointed at water steam is created.

MIT thinks that the dish will return its installation cost in two years, unlike standard photo-voltaic installations which can take 10 years or more to return their costs.

It seems that things have come a long way since Archimedes attempted to burn a Roman fleet using lots of bronze shields focused on the target, during the siege of Syracuse. µ

L'Inq
MIT