How To Use Crystals To Generate Electricity

Crystals, such as quartz, can be tapped for electricity using a piezoelectric (mechanical energy discharge) method. By securing the crystal and subjecting it to direct force with a permanent magnet, a detectable amount of electricity is released. This technology is used in cigarette lighters and gas grill ignition buttons; the unit requires no battery cell to operate. Continuously rapping on the crystal will produce usable electrical current. Making a small crystal electrical generator will take the average backyard inventor about a half-hour.

Step 1

Cut the insulated wire into two parts using the blade section of the wire stripper.

Step 2

Strip all four ends of the two wires, exposing about a half-inch of copper filament on each end. Twist the ends of the wires into tight coils if using a multiple-filament wire.

Step 3

Solder each wire to the back of a separate electrode. The electrode should have an adhesive backing that will allow it to attach to objects. If no electrodes are being used, simply drop a large glob of solder onto one end of each wire, about half the size of a dime.

Step 4

Attach one electrode to the quartz crystal by pressing the adhesive backing onto a flat section. Without electrodes, press the glob of solder against the crystal and secure with a couple drops of glue. Without glue or electrodes, strip the wire down to an exposed length that is long enough to wrap around the crystal tightly.

Step 5

Attach the other electrode to the permanent magnet, using the same methods used to attach to the crystal.

Step 6

Attach the two remaining wire ends to the voltmeter's electrodes (polarity is not important). Set the voltmeter for a low power setting (~1v).

Step 7

Strike the crystal with the magnet, but not hard enough to cause damage. The voltmeter will show a spike when the crystal is hit with the magnet. By striking the two together repetitively, a current can be generated and stored.