Wearable device that collects energy when the user is in motion

A team of British researchers built a test device out of recycled paper towels and plastic cups, powered by electricity generated by users themselves.

Scientists at the Advanced Institute of Technology (ATI) at the University of Surrey (UK) have developed a prototype wrist-worn device made from recycled waste, which operates on energy obtained when the wearer moves.

Wearables made from recycled waste.

Specifically, this prototype is made from discarded paper towels and plastic cups and is capable of transmitting Morse code. The team is planning to apply the new technology to smart watches. The new study was published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces on March 3.

"The current Internet of Things (IoT) revolution illustrates the reality that our planet doesn't have enough raw resources to continue building the devices that are so popular. Our research proves it. demonstrate that there is a way to create sustainable technology powered by electricity generated by ourselves, the people using that technology," said Dr Bhaskar Dudem, an expert at the University of Surrey.

The team says that the device prototype can power itself by charging materials when they come into contact with each other. These materials are known as nanofrictional generators and use a static charge to capture energy through motion.

The new energy harvesting technology could have applications in other devices in the consumer, medical and security sectors, according to Ravi Silva, director of ATI. "ATI's core mission is to help build a world where clean energy can be enjoyed by everyone. Our energy capture technology embodies this important mission, and we stand ready to partner with industry to ensure this technology reaches its full potential," Silva said.