Beijing( The COW News Digital)Chinese scientists have developed a novel polymer material capable of generating electricity from heat produced when it is stretched, potentially eliminating the need for batteries in wearable devices like smartwatches. This breakthrough could revolutionize how wearable electronics are powered, enabling them to sustain themselves without regular charging.
Researchers from Peking University explained that the new material functions on the principle of thermoelectricity, a process in which heat is converted into electricity. Unlike traditional thermoelectric materials, which emphasize flexibility, this polymer utilizes elasticity to generate power. Elasticity is the property by which a material returns to its original shape after being stretched or deformed.
According to the team, the polymer resembles a rubber band and effectively converts mechanical deformation into electrical energy. When the material is pulled or stretched, it produces enough electrical charge to power small electronic devices. The discovery challenges the prevailing assumption that thermoelectric materials must prioritize flexibility over elasticity for efficient energy conversion.
The research, published in the journal Nature, highlights that until now, most high-performance thermoelectric materials focused on flexibility, allowing them to bend or conform without breaking. The new material introduces a different mechanism, where stretching energy is harvested for continuous power output.
Currently, wearable devices like smartwatches rely heavily on rechargeable batteries, requiring regular charging. With the development of this innovative polymer, devices could potentially remain operational without traditional power sources, offering a more sustainable and convenient solution for users.
The scientists emphasized that the polymer could be incorporated into the design of next-generation wearable electronics, including health monitoring devices, fitness trackers, and even flexible sensors. By integrating this self-powering material, manufacturers could produce devices that operate autonomously, reducing dependency on batteries and improving device longevity.
Experts believe that this advancement not only addresses energy efficiency but also opens new avenues in material science and wearable technology, making electronics lighter, more reliable, and environmentally friendly. Further studies are planned to enhance the material’s efficiency and explore its applications across a wider range of electronic devices.
