Scientists Created Saline Flexible Batteries For Implants And Wearables

The risk with wearable devices and medical implants is the batteries that they count on to function. Most lithium-ion ones are too rigid to be used effectively, while the flexible ones use corrosive electrolytes that can always backfire and put a user’s health in jeopardy. So, scientists have been working on a way to power up these devices in a safe way. That led to batteries made from biologically safe liquid #todaymagic

The recipe for these new batteries included a saline ingredient. In fact, the Chinese scientists came up with two solutions – one, saline, the other one, with cell cultures containing amino acids, sugars, and vitamins. The first one used electrode films in a mesh structure, while the second one had a woven carbon nanotube fibre basis.

Guess what? While both did better than standard Li-Ion batteries used in wearables, the second triggered an unexpected reaction. It actually dissolved oxygen quickly and accelerated its transformation in hydroxide ions. Why is that impressive? Well, this “deoxygenation might even wipe out cancerous cells or pathogenic bacteria since they are very sensitive to changes in living environment pH.”,explained in a paper  co-senior author Yonggang Wang.

This might be an approach to a cure for cancer, although extensive research needs to be done before advancing such a theory. Until then, these batteries could shape the wearable and electronic pills industry further on.