Intrinsically stretchable and rechargeable batteries for self-powered stretchable electronics

Stretchable electronic circuits conform to irregular three dimensional surfaces. They are formed with soft materials and contain electronic circuits, sensors, and other components. We report on a soft matter based rechargeable electrochemical power storage element for such devices. The chemistry is based on a rechargeable alkaline manganese battery concept. The cells withstand more than 700 mechanical stretch relaxation cycles up to 25% strain, with an average cell capacity of 6.5 mA h. Combined with wireless power transmission or stretchable solar cells, the rechargeable battery can be used to store and supply energy in stretchable electronic devices.