Researchers in Sweden have developed a unique polymer called PBFDO, capable of converting heat from the human body into electricity. Its main advantage is durability: it maintains conductivity for more than 14 months, which is significantly better than existing analogs.
The polymer is safe, flexible, lightweight, and environmentally friendly: it contains no rare-earth metals and can be used directly on the body or in clothing.
The technology has already been tested in two devices—a button and a mini-generator—producing 6–17 mV. At this stage, this is not sufficient to charge major gadgets, but the potential is substantial, especially for powering battery-free wearable sensors.
This development aligns with the global trend toward sustainable technologies and could potentially reshape the future of wearable electronics, making them more autonomous and environmentally friendly. Perhaps, in the future, a jacket will do more than just keep you warm—it could also charge your headphones.
