Power harvesting for wearable electronics using fabric electrochemistry

Abstract

We present a new method of power harvesting for wearable electronics that is based on epidermal electrochemical dressings dampened by a bodily exudate (sweat, wound exudate, etc.). Generation of DC power is achieved via an electrochemical process that enables transfer of electrons from silver-to zinc-printed dots using the bodily exudate as an electrolyte. Contrary to existing power harvesting methods (e.g., RF or solar), the proposed method is fully-flexible and does not require bulky circuits or any sort of rigid components. Proof-of-concept results are presented, demonstrating: a) unobtrusive DC power generation in the μW range, and b) a batteryless epidermal sensor that identifies open wounds underneath its surface. Overall, this technology is expected to be of utmost significance for powering wearable electronics in military, healthcare, sports, and emergency applications, among others.