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A groundbreaking study led by researchers at Tianjin University of Technology has unveiled a pioneering implantable battery that harnesses the body’s own oxygen as a sustainable energy source. This innovation could revolutionize the powering of medical devices such as pacemakers and neurostimulators, offering a promising solution for prolonged and reliable energy delivery.
The research, conducted on rats and published in the journal Chem, showcases the potential of this implantable battery to provide stable power while maintaining biological compatibility.
Conventional batteries used in medical implants are often limited by their finite materials, which restrict their capacity and lifespan. In contrast, the newly developed battery capitalizes on the abundance of oxygen present in the body, paving the way for uninterrupted energy generation.
Corresponding author Xizheng Liu, an expert in energy materials and devices at Tianjin University, explained, “When you think about it, oxygen is the source of our life. If we can leverage the continuous supply of oxygen in the body, battery life won’t be limited by the finite materials within conventional batteries.”
The battery’s electrodes, crafted from a sodium-based alloy and nanoporous gold, interact chemically with bodily oxygen to produce electricity. Encased in a porous polymer film for safety and flexibility, the battery demonstrated promising results when tested in rats.
Implanted beneath the skin, the battery maintained stable voltages and achieved a power density of 2.6 µW/cm^2 over two weeks. Although current power levels may not be sufficient for medical devices, the study underscores the feasibility of utilizing internal oxygen for energy production.
Importantly, the research team observed no significant inflammation at the implantation site, and the battery’s byproducts were efficiently processed by the body without adverse effects on vital organs.
Intriguingly, the battery’s presence appeared to enhance wound healing, with complete hair regrowth and blood vessel regeneration observed around the implantation site after four weeks.
Looking ahead, researchers aim to enhance the battery’s energy output by exploring more efficient materials and optimizing its structure. Additionally, they envision potential therapeutic applications, including targeting tumor cells by depleting oxygen or converting energy to heat for cancer treatment.
“The prospects for this battery are exciting,” Liu remarked. “From a new energy source to potential biotherapies, this innovation holds tremendous promise.”
As scientists continue to unlock the full potential of implantable technologies, this groundbreaking research marks a significant step towards transforming medical device powering and advancing therapeutic interventions.
The study published in Chem sets the stage for further exploration and innovation in the field of implantable devices, offering hope for improved patient outcomes and novel medical treatments.
