Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have taken a step forward in developing fabrics that generate electricity from body temperature . The innovation relies on a conductive silk thread coated with polymers, specifically designed to turn common textiles into thermoelectric power sources. This technology could allow us to wear clothing that powers electronic devices such as health monitors and sports sensors.
Thermoelectric textiles convert temperature differences between the human body and the environment into electricity , a breakthrough that allows the energy generated to be used to power sensors without the need for batteries. These sensors can be used in sportswear or medical clothing, offering a sustainable, wireless alternative.
One of the major challenges facing researchers is the stability of the material over time, as well as ensuring its flexibility and safety. In this study, Chalmers’ team has replaced metals in the conductive thread with polymers, managing to maintain its electrically conductive properties for at least a year, even after several washes. This material, in addition to being safe and flexible, allows the user to enjoy a comfortable and functional experience in everyday life.
A conductive silk thread with interesting properties
According to researcher Mariavittoria Craighero, this conductive silk thread is light, adaptable and free of toxic materials, which makes it easy to use in textiles that come into direct contact with the skin. To test its effectiveness, the team made two prototype generators: a sewn-on button and a thermoelectric fabric. In the tests, they managed to generate up to 6 millivolts with a temperature difference of 30 degrees, enough to charge electronic devices if a voltage converter is used.
Despite the success, there are still challenges to bringing this technology to market. Currently, production of these thermoelectric textiles is done manually in the lab, a slow and expensive process. However, the team hopes that in the future it can be automated, which would open the door to mass manufacturing and widespread use in clothing and other smart textile products.
Project leader Christian Müller highlights the promising applications of this technology in wearable devices, sportswear and medical applications, representing a major step forward in the integration of energy and electronics in the textile sector.
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Source and photo: Chalmers University of Technology
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