Conventional batteries in these devices require surgical replacement when they become discharged, creating risk and discomfort for patients. But a team of Chinese scientists has proposed an innovative alternative: an implantable battery powered by the body’s oxygen. 24 Channels.

More about the job

The study, published in the journal Chem, describes the development of a battery that uses oxygen naturally found in the human body to maintain constant power. The battery has electrodes made of gold and sodium, which are considered safe for the body. These electrodes generate electricity by interacting with oxygen during metabolism, and the protective plastic casing ensures biocompatibility.

In experimental studies on laboratory mice, researchers inserted a sodium-oxygen (Na-O2) battery directly under the animals’ skin. The results showed no signs of inflammation or adverse effects on the vital activities of the mice, as well as a stable electrical output in the range of 1.3 to 1.4 volts.

Why is this important?

Although current energy output is not sufficient for modern medical devices, this work is a promising proof of concept for using internal oxygen as an energy source.

Using a continuous supply of oxygen in the body could potentially extend battery life beyond the limits set by traditional materials, according to Xizheng Liu, a researcher at Tianjin University of Technology and corresponding author of the study.

In the future, researchers aim to increase the battery’s output power while keeping it safe for internal use. If successful, this technology could revolutionize the durability of implantable medical devices, providing long-term functionality without the need for invasive battery replacement.