Flexible and Sustainable Thermoelectric Generators for Powering Wearable Biosensors

Objective

The global demand for wearable biosensors is rapidly increasing due to the growing need for remote-patient monitoring. A major challenge, however, is that these devices dependent on batteries, which require frequent replacement or recharging, raising challenges for usability, waste, and sustainability. The proposed research aims to address this limitation by developing flexible thin-film thermoelectric generators (FLEX-TEGs) capable of harvesting body heat to provide a continuous and maintenance-free power source for wearable biosensors. Current research on flexible thermoelectrics has focused on either flexible organic materials with low thermoelectric efficiency or inorganic material which are efficient but scarce, toxic, and expensive. These limitations restrict large-scale adoption and neglect the recyclability of devices at end-of-life. To move beyond the state of the art, this project will explore copper sulfide (Cu2-xS, x = 0-1) thin films. This material is earth-abundant, non-toxic, low-cost, and recyclable, with promising thermoelectric properties at room temperature that remain largely unexplored in flexible form. The project will fabricate p- and n-type copper sulfide thin films, integrate them into FLEX-TEGs, and assess their room-temperature power output and mechanical durability. Dr. Maryana Asaad brings strong expertise in thermoelectric materials and device fabrication, while Prof. Paolo Scardi and his team at the University of Trento provide internationally recognised expertise in energy materials and device engineering. The outcomes will deliver new insights into the performance of sustainable thermoelectric thin films, establish design strategies for FLEX-TEGs, and demonstrate their suitability for powering biosensors. The impact will include cost reductions of up to 90% compared to the commercially used Bi2Te3-based devices, elimination of toxic elements, and advancement of greener, more sustainable healthcare technologies.