Textile-Based Thermoelectric Generators and Their Applications

With the rapid development of Internet of Things and miniaturized electronics, the demand for wearable power sources with high reliability and long duty cycle promotes the exploration of wearable thermoelectric generators (TEGs). In particular, textile-based TEGs that can perpetually convert the ubiquitous temperature gradient between human body and ambience into electrical energy have attracted intensive attention to date. These lightweight and three-dimensional deformable TEGs comprised of fibers, filaments, yarns, or fabrics offer unique merits as wearable power source in comparison with conventional TEGs. In this review, we systematically summarize the state-of-the-art strategies for textile-based TEGs, including the structure design, fabrication, device performance, and application. Existing critical issues and future research emphasis are also discussed.