This invention is a high-performance, wearable energy storage device integrated into clothing, offering exceptional energy and power density, mechanical robustness, and washability. Traditional Li-ion batteries are unsuitable for wearables due to health hazards and performance limitations. The device features conductive carbon nanotube (CNT) threads and an alkali-polymer membrane electrolyte, achieving enhanced charge transport and energy storage through controlled hydration. The device is fabricated using scalable methods and packaged with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for durability and washability. This innovation is poised to revolutionize the wearable technology market, with potential interest from major tech and apparel companies and strategic applications in the military.
Figure (1) A. Schematic of the fabrication of device through weaving and sewing the CNT thread (active electrode material) through the alkali-polymer ion gel electrolyte. B Vertical stacks of the device. C. Cyclic voltammograms of the device fabricated in different configurations . D. Effect of hydration of the polymeric matrix on the capacitance of the device. E. Areal and volumetric capacitance at varying hydration levels of the alkali-polymer electrolyte; (2) A. Photograph of the CNT thread. B. Evolution of current-voltage characteristics from polyester, synthetic yarn (non-conductive) to CNT thread. C and D represent SEM images of CNT thread indicating the adsorption and absorption of inter-twined CNTs; (3) It illustrates a prototype of the device of present invention
Current energy storage solutions, such as traditional Li-ion batteries, fail to meet the stringent requirements of wearable technologies due to their limited mechanical robustness, washability, and safety concerns. There is a critical need for an energy storage device that integrates seamlessly into clothing, offering high energy and power densities, durability under mechanical stress, and suitability for repeated wash cycles, while maintaining performance and safety standards.
The uniqueness of this energy storage device lies in its seamless integration into wearable fabrics, offering high energy and power densities while maintaining robust mechanical performance and washability. Utilizing carbon nanotube (CNT) threads as electrodes and a solid electrolyte, either alkali-polymer or ionic liquid-polymer, interspersed with CNT threads, the device achieves a dielectric membrane configuration. This structure is designed for durability under mechanical stress such as washing, flexing, and bending, crucial for wearable applications. It is lightweight and can be integrated into clothing via stitching or temporary fasteners like Velcro, making it ideal for wearable energy storage in diverse environments.
The device utilizes controlled hydration of the polymer electrolyte to enhance charge transport and energy storage capabilities. Dimensions are designed to be compact and lightweight, suitable for integration into clothing. It achieves high energy density (>10 Wh/kg) and power density (1500 W/kg), with robust performance against mechanical stress and washability, making it ideal for continuous use in wearable applications.
The technology has been granted a patent and is available for licensing.
6
The technology offers societal benefits by improving wearable devices with enhanced comfort and functionality, reducing electronic waste, ensuring user safety through non-hazardous materials, stimulating economic growth, and promoting accessibility to advanced technology for healthcare and everyday use.
- Wearable electronics: Devices integrated into clothing for health monitoring and personal communication.
- Smart clothing and textiles: Fabrics with embedded sensors and energy storage for enhanced functionality.
- Portable medical devices: Lightweight devices for continuous monitoring and medical diagnostics.
- Military applications: Energy-efficient solutions for soldiers' equipment and communication gear.
- Environmental sustainability initiatives: Technologies reducing electronic waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
201721003344
424091