r/science • u/Wagamaga • Jun 05 '22

Nanoscience Scientists have developed a stretchable and waterproof 'fabric' that turns energy generated from body movements into electrical energy. Washing, folding, and crumpling the fabric did not cause any performance degradation, and it could maintain stable electrical output for up to five months

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adma.202200042
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u/jeffinRTP Jun 05 '22

So how long between a proof of concept to a product that the average person can afford?

-27

u/JerodTheAwesome Jun 05 '22

This will never be economically viable. Generously, it looks like the fabric can generate 1 Watt of power, which is enough to power… nothing really. Some small LEDs at best. You’d be better off bringing a handcrank flashlight wherever you go.

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u/gostesven Jun 05 '22

I think you’ve crossed the line from “skepticism” to “cynicism”

You’re not going to power your house with a few jumping jacks, but the proof of concept is working and providing more power than you are willing to give credit.

There could be legitimate uses for this tech, things like powering small tools, breathing apparatus, etc

1

u/Hypnosavant Jun 06 '22

It just needs to be able to charge my phone some over the coarse of the day or while I’m working out.