A group of researchers from the University of Washington, led by Professor Mohammad Malakooti, managed to invent a portable device that converts body heat into electricity.
The study was recently published in the journal Advanced Materials. This innovative but still young technology could one day make it possible to charge small electronic devices simply by wearing a bracelet or another accessory.
This is how the smartphone of the future will be unlocked
The key to the invention of American scientists lies in the extreme flexibility of this new technology. Traditionally, thermoelectric devices that convert heat into energy have been rigid and fragile.
The one created by this team of researchers is soft and strong, and can be stretched up to 2,000 times without losing its ability to produce electricity. This is possible thanks to a three-layer structurewhere in the center are rigid semiconductors that convert heat into electricity.
All around, a 3D printed composite material that improves energy efficiency and reduces weight. Finally, traces of liquid metal provide elasticity, conductivity and self-repair. This new technology worn on the skin immediately begins to produce energy. This was demonstrated by lighting a small LED powered exclusively by body heat.
What matters about this new technology?
The idea behind designing the cellular device with such an innovative method is fascinating with potential for applications in this technological field. Professor Malakooti imagines that these devices can be used to recover auxiliary thermal products from electronic devices, such as servers in the data center.
In these environments, waste heat could power sensors to monitor temperature and humidity, reducing overall energy consumption.
The possibility of exploiting thermal energy from existing sources makes this solution sustainable and innovative, with a significant reduction in environmental impact. This constitutes a truly revolutionary discovery.
The device that will allow us to recharge our cell phones with our heat
This LED is powered solely by body heat, thanks to the portable device. This technology is very promising, so much so that it is not limited to simple energy production.
The team discovered that by adding electricity to the system, the devices can also be used to heat or cool surfaces. The research opens up new possibilities in the field of virtual reality and wearables in the near future.
But for now, the top priority of these researchers is to develop efficient and durable devicescapable of providing thermal feedback and powering small devices with body heat. For the rest, there is time and the limit is represented exclusively by the imagination.
