Three-dimensional helical inorganic thermoelectric generators and photodetectors for stretchable and wearable electronic devices

Abstract

Stretchable, light-weight and breathable thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are highly desired for wearable electronic devices as promising power sources. However, it remains challenging to realize high-performance stretchable TEGs where the employment of inorganic materials is inevitable. Here, we provide the first three-dimensional helical inorganic TEG which is highly stretchable (∼100% strain), stable (1000 cycles of stretching), light-weight and breathable, thus indicating its great potential as a portable and wearable power supply that harvests energy from the human body. More importantly, we propose a novel, versatile and effective strategy which artfully transforms rigid electronic devices to stretchable helical ones. This ingenious and general approach for developing various functional wearable electronic devices is further exemplified by ZnO photodetectors, which are also demonstrated as highly stretchable (∼600% strain), deformable and breathable. The intelligent architecture design and assembly technique reported in this work will aid in pushing wearable electronic devices a step forward.