Imagine wearing your smartphone like a flexible band on your wrist or clothes that charge your devices as you wear them. A recent breakthrough led by Professor Jin Kon Kim and Dr. Keon-Woo Kim from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) is turning this vision into reality. Published in Advanced Materials, this collaborative effort also involved Professor Taesung Kim, M.S./Ph.D. student Hyunho Seok from Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), and Professor Hong Chul Moon from the University of Seoul (UOS).
The Challenge of Integrating Mesoporous Metal Oxides (MMOs)
Mesoporous metal oxides (MMOs) boast extensive surface areas, making them ideal for energy storage, catalysis, semiconductors, and sensors. However, integrating MMOs into wearable and flexible devices faced hurdles due to the inability of plastic substrates to withstand high temperatures required for MMO synthesis.
Innovative Synthesis Approach
The research team devised a novel approach, leveraging heat and plasma synergistically to synthesize various MMOs, including vanadium oxide (V2O5), V6O13, TiO2, Nb2O5, and WO3, on flexible materials at significantly lower temperatures (150 ~ 200°C). Plasma chemical moieties provided the necessary energy, compensating for the reduced temperature. These fabricated devices exhibited remarkable flexibility, enduring thousands of bends without compromising energy storage performance.
Implications and Future Prospects
Professor Jin Kon Kim envisions a revolution in wearable tech, with gadgets becoming not only more flexible but also more adaptable to daily needs. This breakthrough opens doors for diverse applications, from flexible electronics to energy-efficient wearables.
Research Support
The study received support from the National Creative Initiative Research Program, Basic Research in Science & Engineering Program, and Nano & Material Technology Development Program. This pioneering research marks a significant step forward in the realm of flexible energy storage materials, promising a future where technology seamlessly integrates into our daily lives.
Source：miragenews.com
