Core Viewpoint - The research team from Southeast University has developed a groundbreaking bio-inspired self-generating and energy-storing concrete, which aims to transform the construction industry's high energy consumption and carbon emissions into a comprehensive energy solution [1][2]. Group 1: Energy Consumption and Emissions - Currently, the construction process in China accounts for 45% of the national energy consumption and over 50% of carbon emissions [1]. - Traditional photovoltaic power generation is limited by weather conditions and high storage costs [1]. Group 2: Innovative Materials - The team has created two types of self-generating cement-based supermaterials: N-type thermoelectric cement and P-type thermoelectric cement, which can convert temperature differences into electricity [1]. - The N-type thermoelectric cement has a Seebeck coefficient of -40.5 mV/K, approximately ten times higher than the best traditional thermoelectric materials [1]. - The P-type thermoelectric cement has a power factor (PF) 51 times and a ZT value 42 times higher than traditional materials [1]. Group 3: Mechanical Properties and Applications - The self-generating cement-based supermaterial can continuously generate electricity as long as there is a temperature difference, addressing the supply gap in clean energy [1]. - The compressive strength of the new materials is enhanced by 60%, and toughness is increased nearly tenfold, overcoming the mechanical performance limitations of traditional thermoelectric materials [1]. Group 4: Energy Storage Capabilities - The team has also developed a self-storing cement-based supercapacitor that maintains high strength while increasing ionic conductivity by six orders of magnitude [2]. - After 20,000 charge-discharge cycles, the supercapacitor retains 95% of its initial specific capacitance, matching the lifespan of the building [2]. Group 5: Environmental Impact and Future Potential - The innovations in cement materials are reshaping the traditional view of building materials from merely structural to energy-generating entities, providing critical technological support for achieving carbon neutrality goals [2]. - These advancements open up limitless possibilities for a green and intelligent lifestyle for humanity [2].