High-Efficiency Nanostructured Materials for Flexible and Wearable Energy Harvesting Technologies

Assistant Professor, Department of Basic Science and Humanities Institute of Engineering & Management, Kolkata, Salt-Lake Campus. University of Engineering & Management, Kolkata

^* Authors for correspondence: chandan.adhikari@iem.edu.in

Published online: 5 May 2025

Abstract

The growing demand for portable, sustainable power sources has driven significant advancements in flexible and wearable energy harvesting technologies. These technologies leverage ambient mechanical, thermal, and vibrational energy to power small electronic devices, offering a promising solution for self-sustaining, on-the-go power systems. The integration of nanostructured materials into energy harvesting devices has emerged as a key strategy to enhance efficiency, flexibility, and performance. This paper explores the role of high-efficiency nanostructured materials in the development of flexible and wearable energy harvesting systems. It examines various energy harvesting mechanisms, including piezoelectric, triboelectric, and thermoelectric, and their compatibility with nanomaterials. The unique properties of nanostructured materials—such as increased surface area, flexibility, and enhanced electrical performance—are discussed in the context of optimizing energy conversion efficiency. The paper also reviews the design principles for integrating these materials into flexible and wearable devices, highlighting recent innovations and case studies in the field. Applications of flexible energy harvesters in wearable electronics, self-powered medical devices, and environmental monitoring are presented, along with the challenges of scaling, durability, and sustainability. Finally, future perspectives on the commercialization of these technologies are provided, emphasizing the need for improved material fabrication, cost-effectiveness, and long-term reliability. This paper offers a comprehensive overview of how nanostructured materials are revolutionizing energy harvesting, paving the way for more efficient, sustainable, and portable power solutions.