A QUT-led research team has developed an ultra-thin, flexible film capable of powering wearable devices using body heat, eliminating the need for batteries. This innovative technology may also cool electronic chips, enhancing the efficiency of smartphones and computers.
Published in Science, the research highlights the creation of flexible thermoelectric devices that convert body heat into electricity, paving the way for sustainable energy sources for wearable electronics and efficient chip cooling.
Led by Professor Zhi-Gang Chen, the study showcases the collaborative work of QUT researchers and international contributors. The team employed advanced manufacturing techniques, including solvothermal synthesis and screen-printing, to produce scalable and cost-effective thermoelectric films using bismuth telluride sheets.
“These devices can comfortably be worn on the skin, where they effectively transform body heat into power,” said Professor Chen. “They also hold promise for use in confined spaces, such as inside computers or phones, to cool chips and boost performance.”
The breakthrough addresses long-standing challenges in the field, including flexibility, cost, and efficiency, offering practical applications in personal thermal management and sustainable technology.
The research team emphasized that their method could also utilize alternative materials like silver selenide, making the technology more affordable and environmentally friendly. This flexibility broadens the scope for advancing thermoelectric devices, opening new possibilities for wearable and electronic technologies.
