Toward Long-Range, Batteryless Water Leak Detection: A LoRa-Based Approach

Abstract

This work presents a fully self-powered, batteryless long-range (LoRa)-based water leak detection sensor system. This system integrates a layered electrochemical energy harvester, a dc–dc boost converter, and a supercapacitor to meet the high instantaneous power demands of LoRa transmissions. Upon water contact, the harvested energy activates wireless communication without requiring any batteries. The sensor is validated through hardware measurements, demonstrating over 500 mA of short-circuit current, activation time under 50 s, and robust performance across multiple interior walls. This solution marks a significant step toward scalable, maintenance-free, and LoRa battery-free Internet of Things (IoT) leak detection.