A QUT-led research team has developed an ultra-thin, flexible film that could power next-generation wearable devices using body heat, eliminating the need for batteries.

This technology could also be used to cool electronic chips, helping smartphones and computers run more efficiently.

Professor Zhi-Hang Chen said the breakthrough tackled a major challenge in creating flexible thermoelectric devices that converted body heat into power. 

“Flexible thermoelectric devices can be worn comfortably on the skin where they effectively turn the temperature difference between the human body and surrounding air into electricity,” Professor Chen said.

They could also be applied in a tight space, such as inside a computer or mobile phone, to help cool chips and improve performance. Other potential applications range from personal thermal management – where body heat could power a wearable heating, ventilating and air conditioning system.

However, challenges like limited flexibility, complex manufacturing, high costs and insufficient performance have hindered these devices from reaching commercial scale.

Source: Science Daily

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