Scientists at DGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology) have developed an incredible self-powered sensor that can generate both electricity and light—just by moving or pressing it!
This breakthrough could be used in real-life applications like disaster rescue, sports monitoring, and wearable safety devices—all without needing a battery.
The sensor uses two advanced technologies:
- Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) – These create electricity from motion.
- Mechanoluminescence (ML) – This produces light when pressure is applied.
While scientists have studied these technologies separately, they usually faced challenges such as unstable power output or short-lasting light emission.
The DGIST research team found a way to combine them effectively into a single, durable, and efficient device.
They achieved this by adding light-emitting zinc sulfide-copper (ZnS:Cu) particles to a flexible rubber-like material (PDMS) and designing an advanced silver nanowire electrode.
The result? A device that can withstand over 5,000 presses without losing performance while generating up to 60 volts of electricity and a 395 nA current—all from simple movement!
A game-changer for emergencies and wearables
This new sensor is ready for real-world use.
It can send emergency SOS signals using light, making it incredibly useful for disaster rescues, deep-sea operations, and dark environments. Unlike traditional battery-powered devices, this sensor can function underwater and in harsh conditions without running out of power.
Possible uses include:
✅ Safety helmets that detect impacts and send alerts
✅ Wristbands that track movement in sports
✅ Underwater rescue devices that send distress signals
Because it doesn’t need a battery, the sensor is also environmentally friendly and sustainable, reducing waste and pollution.
A safer and greener future
“This is a major step forward because our technology generates both light and electricity without batteries, using only motion,” said Prof. Kim Hoe Joon, the lead researcher. “It will help make our lives safer and more sustainable, allowing real-time emergency signals while also reducing environmental impact.”
The research was led by Prof. Kim Hoe Joon, Dr. Jeong Soon Moon, and Prof. Mishra from the University of Southern Denmark, with contributions from postdoctoral researcher Sugato Hajra and Ph.D. student Swati Panda. The findings were published in Advanced Sustainable Systems in 2024.
This battery-free innovation could revolutionize safety technology, offering a reliable, eco-friendly solution for various industries!
Source: KSR.
