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Scientists have developed a new type of battery that operates using moisture from the air, instead of the liquid chemicals typically found in most batteries. This lightweight, flexible power source could potentially supply energy to wearable health trackers, smart sensors, and other compact electronics, all while being safer for users and the environment.
Created by researchers at North Carolina State University and Rice University, their findings were published in the journal Science Advances. As many modern devices—like fitness trackers, medical monitors, and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors—require small, portable power sources, the new moisture-driven battery offers an innovative alternative to traditional lithium-ion cells. While lithium-ion batteries are effective, they tend to be heavy, rigid, and often contain flammable or toxic chemicals that can leak if damaged.
This new design avoids those issues by absorbing water vapor from the surrounding air. Once water contacts the battery’s internal lithium chloride salts, it dissolves them, forming a saltwater electrolyte that conducts electricity. Because the battery is activated only upon exposure to air, it can stay sealed and inactive for extended periods, giving it a much longer shelf life compared to conventional batteries.
Made from environmentally friendly materials, the battery features a magnesium anode, a silver-based cathode, and a cellulose membrane derived from plant matter. Its reliance on saltwater rather than flammable chemicals makes it safer and less harmful to the environment.
The researchers also tackled a common challenge with flexible batteries—performance loss when stretched or bent. Inspired by pangolin scales, which are overlapping protective plates, they arranged the battery components in similar overlapping layers. This design ensures the battery maintains functionality even when subjected to stretching, twisting, or bending.
Testing demonstrated that the battery could power a wireless Bluetooth blood oxygen monitor for up to 30 hours—comparable to many traditional batteries—highlighting its practical application potential. The team envisions this technology supporting future devices such as wearable medical tools, smart clothing, environmental sensors, tiny robots, and other interconnected electronics.
An innovative feature of the battery is an optional “kill switch” designed for security purposes. This involves a dry mixture of aluminum and iodine powder stored separately. If someone attempts to tamper with the device, moisture from the environment activates the powder mixture, triggering a rapid chemical reaction that produces enough heat to destroy the device within minutes. In tests, a wireless gas sensor equipped with this kill switch was completely dismantled in under three minutes once triggered.
While primarily aimed at security and intelligence applications, the main achievement lies in the battery itself. Combining flexibility, safety, biodegradability, and dependable performance, this pioneering technology has the potential to power next-generation smart devices while minimizing environmental impact.
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