Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada developed a smart fabric that generates energy through body heat.

The new, cost-effective fabric can convert body heat and solar energy into electricity. This means a stable and continuous source of power. With integrated sensors, the fabric can monitor temperature, stress and other things. This allows the fabric to be used for health monitoring and movement tracking, for instance for athletes.

Currently, wearable devices rely on external power sources and frequent recharging. The new fabric eliminates the need for that.

The next phase of research will focus on further enhancing the fabric’s performance and integrating it with electronic components in collaboration with electrical and computer engineers.

Photo: University of Waterloo