Researchers from the Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems have developed a novel nano-textile that can convert body movement into electricity and store that energy. Detailed in a paper published in Nano Research Energy, the technology could transform wearable display devices, providing an innovative solution to power supply constraints.
The team, led by nano systems specialist Feifan Sheng, produced a triboelectric nanogenerator, referred to as a fiber-TENG. This innovative textile is made of three distinct layers: polylactic acid, reduced graphene oxide, and polypyrrole. Through the process of mechanical deformation – bending, stretching, etc. – the textile generates an electrical output that can power wearable electronic devices.
Critically for wearable display applications, this technology could alleviate the need for conventional power sources such as batteries, making wearables more comfortable and less cumbersome. This breakthrough paves the way for more seamless integration of display technology in everyday clothing items, such as shirts or pants, allowing for more real-time, intuitive user interactions.
The researchers were particularly successful in creating a durable and high-capacity energy storage unit, or fiber-SC. This coaxial fiber-shaped supercapacitor stores and releases electrical energy, acting as the power bank for wearable display devices.
With impressive specifications, the fiber-TENG textile has promising implications for the future of wearable display devices. The research team’s next steps include refining the design and manufacturing processes, as well as exploring real-world applications of this textile. Although, it’s still early days for this technology, but what a great idea for seamless, comfortable, and sustainable wearable display devices.
Reference
Sheng F, Zhang B, Cheng R, et al. Wearable energy harvesting-storage hybrid textiles as on-body self-charging power systems. Nano Research Energy, 2023, https://doi.org/10.26599/NRE.2023.9120079
