One of the greatest challenges facing in-body batteries is the corrosive nature of their materials. Another problem is replacing them surgically when their capacity fades. We have not gotten around to tapping the energy in our bodies yet. Come back tomorrow to discover more about a fascinating topic. Meanwhile scientists are wondering about using body fluids as electrolytes. Voila, enter a Chinese saline solution.
This Chinese Saline Solution is Still Partly Under Wraps
We had to obtain permission from the scientists to use the images on this page. Therefore, please do not reproduce them without accessing the full report via the link below. They only release the information normally to other academic people, and educators.
There must have seen something special about this blog that caused them to make an exception.
Batteries comprise three main things inside a casing.
These are cathode and anode electrodes, and a solid, liquid, or squishy electrolyte between.
This electrolyte controls the flow of energy between the electrodes. If it leaks through a damaged casing, it may cause bodily burns.
We already did an electrolysis experiment to make a battery using a salt and water electrolyte. The Chinese saline solution took this a step further when they realized our blood, sweat, and tears are salty solutions too. They wondered whether they could make energy inside our bodies, simply by placing electrodes nearby each other. After all, our skins do make watertight containers and we have enough electrolyte for a lifetime.
Taking the Chinese Saline Solution a Step Closer to Market
The Chinese researchers are working outside human bodies in laboratories. They first need a working model before they can take the next step. They are exploring flattened electrode ‘sandwiches’ and nano threads in hollow tubes. Sodium sulfate and diluted salt water are both working well. Do you think the future of portable energy could be in our tears.
Related:
What Electrolytes Are And How They Work
Biodegradable Battery for Medical Use
Preview Image: Flexible Aqueous Batteries
