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Researchers have developed a flexible, durable wearable prototype that can harvest energy from body heat and turn it into electricity that can be used to power small electronics, such as batteries, sensors or LEDs

UW researchers have developed a flexible, durable electronic prototype that can harvest energy from body heat and turn it into electricity that can be used to power small electronics, such as...

“I had this vision a long time ago,” said senior author Mohammad Malakooti, UW assistant professor of mechanical engineering. These semiconductors are surrounded by 3D-printed composites with low thermal conductivity, which enhances energy conversion and reduces the device’s weight. “We’re hoping someday to add this technology to virtual reality systems and other wearable accessories to create hot and cold sensations on the skin or enhance overall comfort,” Malakooti said.

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