A wearable real-time power supply with a Mg3Bi2-based thermoelectric module

A wearable thermoelectric generator using human body temperature is a promising power supply for wearable electronics. Here we discuss the design and fabrication of one kind of wearable thermoelectric generator constructed by n-type Mg(3.2)Bl(1.498)Sb(0.5)Te(0.002) legs, p-type Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3 legs, polyurethane matrices, and flexible Cu/polyimide electrodes. The proposed device has a low thermal bypass and an efficient thermal contact interface, resulting in a peak power density of similar to 20.6 mu W/cm(2) when placed on a human arm at an ambient temperature of 289 K (air velocity, 1.1 m/s) and a high peak power density of 13.8 mW/cm(2) at a temperature difference of 50 K. In addition, it can withstand 10,000 bending cycles at a bend radius of 13.4 mm, suggesting that the proposed wearable thermoelectric generator has the potential to be a real-time power supply for certain wearable electronics in daily life.

Automated summary

This study presents the design and fabrication of a wearable thermoelectric generator utilizing human body temperature. The device features low thermal bypass, efficient thermal contact interface, and can provide a certain power density while enduring bending tests.