Research progress in flexible solar thermoelectric devices

Abstract

Effective energy harvesting and conversion from environmental sources or the human body, such as the thermoelectric conversion of heat into affordable and sustainable electricity, offers a stable and continuous energy supply for smart wearables and Internet of Things (IoTs) without relying on mechanical components or generating greenhouse gases. However, scaling up the production of thermoelectric fabrics and integrating thermal management for high-efficiency electricity generation present significant challenges. To address this, there is an urgent need to explore the rational design and scalable preparation of FSTEDs. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in radiation-modulating fibers, thermoelectric textiles, and FSTEDs, focusing on materials design principles, preparation methods, performance regulation, and wearable applications. Furthermore, we summarize the challenges currently faced by solar radiation fibers and flexible light-thermal-electric conversion devices, aiming to stimulate further research in both academia and industry. Our timely interpretation of FSTEDs underscores their potential for cost-effective, scalable, and high-performance energy harvesting and conversion in smart wearables.