US Researchers Develop Device That Converts Body Heat into Electrical Energy

US researchers from the University of Washington have developed a flexible, wearable device that converts body heat into electrical energy to operate small electronic devices such as batteries and LED lights. According to the results of the research published in the journal Advanced Materials, the researchers explained that this device is an exciting innovation, as it works immediately upon placement on the skin to light an LED lamp using only body heat, relying on new technologies that allow it to convert body heat directly into electrical energy, an achievement that was not previously possible using traditional devices. One of the most prominent aspects of the innovation in this device is its extreme flexibility compared to traditional, rigid and fragile devices that rely on heat to generate electricity, as the research team designed the device to fit perfectly with the shape of a person's arm, and remains effective even after being repeatedly punctured or stretched. The research team confirmed that this device can be used in various applications, such as installing it on electronic devices that heat up during operation, such as data center servers, to benefit from the wasted heat in operating sensors to monitor temperature and humidity, which helps reduce energy consumption. The researchers also indicated that this device can be used to heat or cool surfaces, which may open the door to using it in virtual reality technologies and other wearable devices to create a sensation of heat or cold on the skin, and enhance the comfort of users of these devices in new and innovative ways. Source: Qatar News Agency