Australian researchers have engineered an ultra-thin, flexible film capable of harnessing body heat to power wearable devices, potentially eliminating the need for batteries. This technology, which could...
Serving tech enthusiasts for over 25 years.TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust Forward-looking: A new development in flexible thermoelectric film technology could pave the way for a new generation of wearable devices and cooling solutions. Researchers at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) have created a flexible film that addresses the longstanding challenges of flexibility, manufacturability, and performance. also cool electronic chips in smartphones and computers, marks a significant advancement in a field that has been steadily progressing for years. The breakthrough builds upon foundational work by research teams worldwide focusing on energy harvesting and thermal management. Thermoelectric devices that can convert temperature differences into electricity have long been sought after for wearable electronics. However, creating flexible, efficient, and commercially viable versions has proven to be difficult. Limited flexibility, complex manufacturing processes, high costs, and insufficient performance have been among the roadblocks in scaling up and commercializing flexible inorganic thermoelectrics for wearable electronics and high-end cooling applications. Professor Zhi-Gang Chen and his team at QUT appear to have addressed these challenges. Their research, published in the journal Science, introduces a cost-effective technology for producing flexible thermoelectric films. The key innovation…