The surge in wearable technology has underscored the necessity for energy sources that can match the flexibility and mobility of these innovative devices. Researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough by developing a small-scale energy storage device capable of stretching, twisting, folding, and wrinkling, as published in npj Flexible Electronics. This advancement, spearheaded by Professor Jin Kon Kim and Dr. Keon-Woo Kim from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), in collaboration with Dr. Chanwoo Yang and Researcher Seong Ju Park from the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH), addresses the longstanding challenge of creating truly adaptable and comfortable wearables.
The innovation lies in the successful laser patterning of both EGaIn and graphene, active materials, onto a stretchable substrate made of polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene-co- butylene)-block-polystyrene copolymer (SEBS). This laser ablation technique preserves the flexibility of the SEBS substrate while maintaining the device's energy storage capacity and stable operation under various mechanical deformations. This breakthrough opens doors for thinner fitness trackers, smart clothing, and medical devices that seamlessly integrate into dynamic lifestyles, ushering in a new era of flexible wearable technology.
